Why boast'st thou, tyrant, thy high crimes aloud?

Verse 1

Why boast'st thou, tyrant, thy high crimes aloud? Our God is ever to the righteous good:

Verse 2

Thy guileful tongue (a falshood ev'ry word) More fatal pierces, than the keenest sword;

Verse 3

Mischief thou lov'st, and goodness dost despise, Truth hath thy hate; thy dear amusement lies;

Verse 4

A Slander, big with ruin, gives thee joy;

Verse 5

Therefore th' avenging God shall thee destroy, Shall root thee out, that thou be seen no more, While man in vain thy dwelling shall explore.

Verse 6

This shall the righteous view with joyful fear, Smile at thy punshment, and heav'n revere.

Verse 7

"Lo! this the man (they'll cry) with impious pride "Who brav'd his maker, and his pow'r defied; "Who his frail riches made his strength, and strove "By villain-arts to mate our Lord above!"

Verse 8

For me, I'll, like an olive, flourish long; I'll in the mercies of my God be strong; I in his house will dwell; and night and day, The wonders of his mighty arm display;

Verse 9

His glorious works, his clemency, proclaim, And hail for ever his tremendous name.