The Holy See
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New American Bible

2002 11 11
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Chapter 2

1

1 Why do the nations protest and the peoples grumble in vain?

2

2 Kings on earth rise up and princes plot together against the LORD and his anointed:

3

"Let us break their shackles and cast off their chains!"

4

The one enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord derides them,

5

Then speaks to them in anger, terrifies them in wrath:

6

"I myself have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain."

7

I will proclaim the decree of the LORD, who said to me, "You are my son; today I am your father.

8

Only ask it of me, and I will make your inheritance the nations, your possession the ends of the earth.

9

With an iron rod you shall shepherd them, like a clay pot you will shatter them."

10

And now, kings, give heed; take warning, rulers on earth.

11

Serve the LORD with fear; with trembling bow down in homage, Lest God be angry and you perish from the way in a sudden blaze of anger. Happy are all who take refuge in God!

 

 



1 [Psalm 2] royal psalm. To rebellious kings (⇒ Psalm 2:1-3) God responds vigorously (⇒ Psalm 2:4-6). A speaker proclaims the divine decree (in the legal adoption language of the day), making the Israelite king the earthly representative of God (⇒ Psalm 2:7-9) and warning kings to obey (⇒ Psalm 2:10-11). The psalm has a messianic meaning for the Church; the New Testament understands it of Christ (⇒ Acts 4:25-27; ⇒ 13:33; ⇒ Hebrews 1:5).



2 [2] Anointed: in Hebrew mashiah, "anointed"; in Greek christos, whence English Messiah and Christ. In Israel kings (⇒ Judges 9:8; ⇒ 1 Sam 9:16; ⇒ 16:12-13) and high priests (⇒ Lev 8:12; ⇒ Numbers 3:3) received the power of their office through anointing.





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