SPACIOUS FIRMAMENT

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.

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.

While 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.

What through in solemn silence all
move round the dark terrestrial ball,
what through no real voice, nor sound
amidst 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.”