1WHY DO the nations assemble with commotion [uproar and confusion of voices], and why do the people imagine (meditate upon and devise) an empty scheme?
2The kings of the earth take their places; the rulers take counsel together against the Lord and His Anointed One (the Messiah, the Christ). {They say,}
3Let us break Their bands [of restraint] asunder and cast Their cords [of control] from us.
4He Who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord has them in derision [and in supreme contempt He mocks them].
5He speaks to them in His deep anger and troubles (terrifies and confounds) them in His displeasure {and} fury, {saying,}
6Yet have I anointed (installed and placed) My King [firmly] on My holy hill of Zion.
7I will declare the decree of the Lord: He said to Me, You are My Son; this day [I declare] I have begotten You.
8Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations as Your inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth as Your possession.
9You shall break them with a rod of iron; You shall dash them in pieces like potters' ware.
10Now therefore, O you kings, act wisely; be instructed {and} warned, O you rulers of the earth.
11Serve the Lord with reverent awe {and} worshipful fear; rejoice {and} be in high spirits with trembling [lest you displease Him].
12Kiss the Son [pay homage to Him in purity], lest He be angry and you perish in the way, for soon shall His wrath be kindled. O blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied) are all those who seek refuge {and} put their trust in Him!