Common Praise ‎#265

265. The spacious firmament on high

1 The spacious firmament on high,
with all the blue ethereal sky,
and spangled heavens, a shining frame,
their great Original proclaim.
The unwearied sun from day to day
does his Creator's power display,
and publishes to every land
the work of an almighty hand.

2 Soon as the evening shades prevail
the moon takes up the wondrous tale,
and nightly to the listening earth
repeats the story of her birth;
whilst all the stars that round her burn,
and all the planets in their turn,
confirm the tidings, as they roll,
and spread the truth from pole to pole.

3 What though in solemn silence all
move round the dark terrestrial ball;
what though nor real voice nor sound
amid their radiant orbs be found;
in reason's ear they all rejoice,
and utter forth a glorious voice,
for ever singing as they shine,
'The hand that made us is divine.'

Text Information

• First Line: The spacious firmament on high
• Author: Joseph Addison, 1672-1719
• Meter: DLM
• Language: English; Latin
• Publication Date: 2000
• Scripture:
  Psalm 19:1-6
• Topic: Creation
• Notes: The last line of each verse is repeated

Tune Information

• Name: ADDISON'S (LONDON)
• Composer: John Sheeles, 1688-1761
• Meter: DLM
• Key: F Major