In strains before unsung, in noblest lays

Verse 1

In strains before unsung, in noblest lays, Ye saints of his, your great Creator praise.

Verse 2

Ye sons of Israel; 'tis to him you owe Your life, your glory; grateful rapture shew: Ye blooming train, that round our Sion throng, Sing to your heav'niy king a joyous song;

Verse 3

Join in the dance in honour of his name; With timbrels and with harps his praise proclaim.

Verse 4

All-clement, he his happy people loves, And their religious melody approves; And everlasting joy will he bestow On all that humbly 'fore his altar bow,

Verse 5

Sing then, ye saints, his glory all the day, His mighty acts, his wond'rous works display; And in the solemn silence of the night, Ere laid to rest, Jehovah's praise recite.

Verse 6

Your dread Creator's praise your blest employ, Let heav'n's high concave eccho with your joy; While wield your nervous arms th' avenging sword Against the nations that reject his word.

Verse 7

Dread punishments shall then their souls await; They fly--they fall--perdition is their fate

Verse 8

Their sceptred kings, their haughty chieftains, mourn In hard, in ruthless chains, their fate forlorn;

Verse 9

And thus they feel from your victorious hand The heavy woes your God had fore-ordain'd; While thro' the regions of the world shall fly Your bright renown, your glorious victory.