melodie The people did worship and singers sing Trumpets founded so that the house did ring This did continue GOD did it commend Till the burnt offering was brought to an end When the Trumpets most holy consecration Was finished the people great oblation Did offer gladely with a most free heart The Priests the Levites each man did his part So the service of GODS house pleasantly Was then in order set most suddenly Thus Hezekiah after all repar'd Rejoic'd in God who had his men prepar'd Then this good King by Gods divine counsell Ordain'd Judah and also Israel To keep passeover for great JEHOVAH At Salem from Dan to Beershebah The posts in hast with letters from the King Went through all parts for to declare this thing The summe was this that all men then shouâ— mourne For their trespasse and to the Lord returne If yee wrote he turne to this Lord of grace In wrath he will not from you turne his face But Ephraim and Manasse forlorne Israels men did laugh these posts to scorne Yet of Aser and of Manasse came Divers to worship the LORD at Salem The hand of God in Judah was mighty To give them one heart with sinceritie To celebrat that great Jehovahs feast â—hey all obey'd the greatest and the least â—ut in Israel numbers foolishly â—â—d beene carelesse themselves to sanctifie â—â—t this good King did pray for them anone â—â—e good Lord said he pardon ev'ry one â—ho doth his owne heart prepare sinceerely â—hough according to Jovahs Sanctuary â—e not cleansed This the Lord did please â—ho heal'd the people of their sore desease â—ea more Isra'l without all wearinesse â—id keepe the feast that day with great gladnesse â—hole fourteene dayes that feast which was holy â—bserved was in Salem Gods city â—he King and Princes did give much cattell â—o the people of Judah and Israel â—nce Solomon the son of David King â—as not in Salem ever seene such thing Then all the Priests and the Levits arose â—nd blest the people both with heart and voice â—hey pray'd to GOD with words filled with grace â—heir prayer came unto Gods dwelling place When this was done by these of both nation â—hey all intended a reformation â—hey cut the groves the images they brake â—he Altars and high places they did sacke That done Isra'l in a good motion Return'd quickly to their possession Then the Priests course the King with diligeâ—â— Ordred and al 's provided maintenance For that great work that preachers of the woâ—â— Might have courage in the Law of the Lord The people willing corne wine oyle holy With tiths of all did bring aboundantly Thus Hezekiah did throughout Judah Good right and truth before the great Jovah He wrought such was his great sincerity The Lord he sought with all his heart truely Then Sen'cherib King of Assyria With great forces entred into Judah When Hezekiah thus perceived them Resolv'd to fight against Jerusalem Then he this counsell from his Princes tooke Who the waters of fountaine and of brooke Will'd him to stop and so their host to scattâ—â— Why should our foes said they with wholâ—â— water Refreshed be So for his own defence Both darts and shields he made in aboundanâ—â— The broken walls up to the towres he rear'd In Davids city he Millo repair'd Captains of war he gath'red to Salem And thus he spake comfortably to them Be strong let not Senacheribs armie â—ith their great number your heartes terrifie â—ith him the armie of flesh the Eternell 〈◊〉 to help us and to fight our Battell After he had these comforts on them prest â—e people all upon his words did rest â—nnacherib after this sent some men â—om faire Lachish unto Jerusalem Vile Rabshakeh thus railed in his pride â—hereon trust yee Into what hole abide â—ill yee Now try and al 's well examine 〈◊〉 yee will die by thirst and sore famine â—t not your King trusting in his JOVAH â—eceive you Is not he Hezekiah â—ho Gods Altars and high places destroy'd â—ath that one Altar in Salem imploy'd Might be Be wise regard not his command â—ow yee not what unto all peoples land My Master hath done What Gods of Nations â—â—uld save their people in such vexations All these gods folks I overthrew at length â—ho is your God that I should fear his strength â—herefore in time consider and percieve Lest that your King vvith vaine vvordes fâ—â— deceive The people all in silence and in doole Did heare these wordes of that blasphemâ—â— foole Then Eliakim the son of Hilkijah Reported all unto Hezekiah Who hearing this was in great grief and smart He rent his cloathes and with his clothes hâ—â— heart Unto Esay the Prophet he did send Men in sackcloth his answere to attend These men unto the Prophet said truely Of trouble rebuke and of blasphemy This is a day the children to the birth Are come but there is no strength to bring forth Of Rabshakeh it may be God will heare The railing word which he voide of all feare Sent from his Master King of Assyria Did vomit out against the Lord Jovah O man of God thy duety doth thee bind To pray for these that are now left behind When these words came unto the Prophets eare He said let not your good Master now feare God in the Heavens most bright in Majestie Hath clearly heard that vile rogues blasphemie â—ehold saith God I in my wrath at last â—pon that man will send a fearfull blast â—f terrour great he shall a rumour hear â—Vhich shall his bones and bowels shake with fear â—ome he shall go trust and believe my word â—n his own land he shall fall by the sword After Rabshakeh had against JOVAH â—hus railed he unto the strong Libnah â—id go where his Master in brags most stout â—ith his armie encamped round about This King again sent to Hezekiah â—en to revile with other words JOVAH Let not said they O Hezekiah King â—hy God deceive thee with this vaine saying â—am the Lord the mighty God Jovah 〈◊〉 shall you save from all Assyriah â—ast thou not heard and understood clearly â—ow these great Kings have wasted utterly All lands None could escape their mightie hand â—â—d now shalt thou before their forces stand â—â—zan Haran Kezeph and Thelasar â—â—th strong Eden they have subdued by war VVhere are the Kings of Hena and Ivah Of Hamath Arpad Tell Hezekijah Where is the King of Sepharvaim strong Who could them match their gods or Kâ—â— among When this vile letter full of blasphemie Was read the King to Gods house speedilie Went up to summe the matter in a word That vile letter he spread before the Lord Then Hezekiah made to th' Eternell This prayer saying O God of Isra'l Which now dwellest betweene the Cherubines Thou art the Lord alone of all Kingdomes With great mercy O Lord bow downe thâ— eare And with regard my humble sute now heare Consider how with wordes sharpe like a good Thâ—y have the name pierc'd of the living
Goâ— Most true it is and easy to enquire That they false gods have burnt into a fire For these gods no gods were but vvorke hands Dead vvood and stone are gods of other laâ—â— Therfore O Lord vve thee beseech humbly Save us novv from that tyrants cruelty â—hat all the Kingdomes of the earth anone May knovv that thou the great God art alone Then the Lords Prophet faithfull Isaiah â—ent to the King even good Hezekiah â—his comfort Thus saith the God of Isra'l â—hen in thy prayer thou didst to me call â—hee did heare Concerning him that day â—his is the vvord that God the Lord did say â—he virgin the dear daughter of Zion â—â—hee hath despised and laughed to scorne â—â—rusalem hath novv most tauntingly â—ith great disdaine shaken her head at thee 〈◊〉 beastly man vvhom hast thou novv nick-named â—ou knovvest not vvhom thou hast so blasphemed â—ainst vvhom thy voice and eyes novv canst thou tell â—st thou lift up Even the God of Isra'l 〈◊〉 thy messengers both in thought and word â—â—sphemously thou hast reproch'd the Lord 〈◊〉 people deare thou hast boasted with threats â—em to destroy with numbers of charets â—ou hast boasted that thou their Cedars tall Shall cut untill they to the ground shall fall Because thou hast of men great assistance Thou hast in number put thy confidence When before thee many did melt like snow Not thou but I these men did overthrow Thou overcame neither by Speare or Shielâ— But I them made like the grasse of the fielâ— Like the green herb or grasse on the house tâ— Or corne blasted before it be growne up But thy abode and comming against me Thy pride and rage is known most certainly Because thy tumults to mine eares come up Therefore into thy proud nose now a hooke I will put al 's my bridle in thy lips Thy vaine glory shall suffer an Ecclipse Though now thou boast and bragge with furie Thou shalt turne backe and flee most sâ— fullie But as for Judah it shall surely spring And pleasant fruits in plenty shall foorth Gods foes the truth of this saying shall fâ—â— The Lord of hosts shall doe it by his zeale As for that vile and vaine blasphemous Aâ—ainst this City he shall doe nothing â—t may it hurt no arrow he shall shut â—em to him shall not be for a But â—en this is done yee shall Jehovah thank â—'gainst Salem no man shall cast a bank â—n home againe with shame I will now send 〈◊〉 my right hand this City shall defend â—hat same night the mighty Eternell 〈◊〉 in all haste send an armed Angell â—o in one night slew at the Lords command hundred fourescore and al 's five thousand â—en they arose in the morning early â—old like doung their dead bodies did lye Then this vaine King who scorned th' Eternell â—urn'd with shame in Niniveh to dwell 〈◊〉 shortly after it thus came to passe â—t God him punish'd for his vile trespasse Nisrochs house which ended all the strife 〈◊〉 owne two sons bereav'd him of his life Some dayes after the good King Hezekiah â—s sicke to him the Prophet Isaiah â—me with this message Thou shalt surely die â—ow thine house in order speedilie Then he his face turned unto the wall â—d thus he said unto the Eternall Remember Lord how I have before thee Walked in trueth and great sinceritie Remember now in my great grief and smart How I thee have serv'd with a perfect heart Remember Lord how I with all my might Have done that which is pleasant in thy sighâ— While thus he spake and added speaches mâ— Good Hezekiah did weep very sore The LORD him heard and his Prophet câ— back And sent him for this lease of life to make Tell Hezekiah that worthy Captaine That he yet King fifeteene yeeres shall remainâ— Thy prayer heard have I and seene thy teares I will tâ—ee heale therefore lay down thy fearâ— Yea more to thee this promise I will make I will this citie save for mine owne sake Then the Prophet in this time full of toile A lump of figs laid upon the Kings boile So for the well of Judahs common wealth The King by GOD restored was to health The King unto the Prophet thus did say How shall I know that I on the third day Shall to GODS house goe and his service see What shall the signe be now tell thou to me Well said the Prophet choise novv as please 〈◊〉 the Sun back or foreward ten degrees â—hall goe For to goe forevvard said the King â—o see shadovves it is no vveighty thing â—et the Lord novv for his great mercies sake Make the shadovv by his might to turne back â—hen the Prophet as he desired said â—nd GOD him heard according as he prai'd â—he Sun went back with his swift sweating Horse â—ull ten degrees as one that hath remorse When on his journey going like the wind â—e him bethinks his purse is left behind â—hen back againe he wheeles most speedilie â—hus went the Sun as men that day might see â—ials went false and Forrests shadowes black Wondred to see themselves turne and goe back Then Berodach-Baladan of Babel â—ing sent to him letters thus for to tell How glade he was of all his peace and wealth â—nd that he was fully restor'd to health But Hezekiah in pride of his heart Did that shortly which did procure his smart Unto these men of Babel foolishly His silver gold spices armour did he Then shew yea all the treasures that he had â—n his vaine pride before their eyes he laid Then came againe the Prophet Isaiah With this new message from the great Jovah He said to them what said these men to thee What 's in mine house said he I let them see Among my treasures all there is nothing Which these men sent from the great Babâ— King Have not now seene Well well said Isaiah Heare a message from the great JEHOVAH All thy treasures gath'red unto this day By Babels men shall be cari'd away Thy dearest sons that shall issue from thee In Babels court they base Eunuchs shall bee Then to the Prophet said Hezekiah Good is the word that thou brings from Jovah I looke for mercy from my God alwayes Let peace and trueth he stable in my dayes Last Hezekiah who all his life did fear The Lord his God sleept with his fathers deare In the chiefest sepulchre of David This worthy King was with honour buri'd The Song of Hezekiah IN cutting off of my short dayes I said I shall now goe Vnto the grave I am depriv'd of my few yeares also 2 I said I shall not see the Lord in the Land of living I shall behold man no more with these that have heere dwelling 3 Mine age is parted and remov'd among trouble and strife Like sheepheards tents I have cut off like a weaver my life He with sicknesse will cut me off what ever I pretend From day ev'n unto night wilt thou of me soone make an end 4
Ahab passing by that place Thy servant went out into the Battell While there I was this unto me befell Behold a man turning himselfe aside Who brought a man unto me and thus said Keep me this man for if he be missing Then for his life thy life shall be the thing Which shall be ransome or surely deliver Without delay a full talent of silver But as thy servant busie was anone This captive man away from me was gone When this was said then said to him the Kâ— Now thou thy self hast decided the thing Of that matter speak thou no more to me Thus hast thou done so shall thy judgement bee When that was said the Prophet in that place Hasted and took the ashes from his face â—hen did the King discerne there most clearely â—hat this man was come with some Prophecy â—hen said the Prophet Thus saith GOD the LORD â—ecause thou hast rebell'd against my word â—ecause thou hast let goe out of thine hand 〈◊〉 man whom I to destroy did command â—cause that thou refused to do this â—hy peoples life and thine shall go for his â—en King Ahab went to his house heavy â—hich then was in Samarias city After these things it befell in that place â—at good Naboth hard by Ahabs palace â—d a vineyard which was in Jezreel â—is man his vineyard was desir'd to sell Ahab King who offred him money 〈◊〉 a vineyard better then it could be But this answere to Ahab he did tell â—e LORD forbid that I to thee should sell â—at which I have for mine inheritance â—m my fathers and not by hap or chance Then Ahab to his house return'd heavy And laid him downe upon his bed sadly He turn'd away his face in his sick bed He freted so that he would eat no bread But Jezabel his wife came him unto Arise said she I know well what to doe Do'st thou not rule the Kingdome of Isra'l Art thou not King over both great and small Arise and eat and also be merrie For Naboths vineyard I will give to thee So to the Elders she in Ahabs name Sent Sealed letters a fast to proclame Set Naboth soone said she in some hâ— place Among the people set before his face Two wicked men who may witnesse this thinâ— That Naboth hath blaspheem'd GOD and King When that is done him carie out quickly Him stone with stones that he may surely diâ— Then the Elders ill Judges without grace Condemn'd Naboth to be ston'd in that place When he was dead they sent to Jezabel For to tell how all the matter befell When she this knew she unto sick Ahab Did cry arise for now Naboths vineyard 〈◊〉 in thy pow'r go take possession â—ho darre controll a great Kings action When AHAB heaâ—d that poore Naboth was dead â—e went unto his vineyard with great speed â—or of the same to take possession â—ho darre controll a great Kings action Then the Lord spake to Elijah saying Arise goe downe to meet Ahab the King â—ehold how he in his great wickednesse 〈◊〉 gone poore Naboths vineyard to possesse â—eake unto him by my direction â—ast thou killed and al 's possession â—ast taken now Where thou hast Naboth good â—illed with stones there dogges shall lick thy blood Then said Ahab to Elijah quickly â—ast thou me found O thou mine enemy â—ea said Elijah for with all thy might â—hou hast thee sold to do ill in GODS sight â—ehold I will bring fearefull plagues on thee â—hee will I spoile of all posteritie â—hem will I slay that pisse against the wall â—oth him that s shut up and left in Isra'l Behold also for thy vile bloody spot Thine house like that of the son of Nebat Shall be brought downe or like to Baasha Whose race was rooted out by Jehovah The LORD also spake this to Jezebel The dogs most vile shall her in Jezreel Eat Ahabs children shall destoyed be By soules in fields by dogs in the city Among the Kings which govern'd Israel None was like Ahab who himselfe did sell To work mischiefe in the course of his life To this he was by Jezebel his wife Most stirred up he like a raging foole Did give himselfe to Amorits idol When Ahab heard these words of Elijah Which threatningly he spake from Jehovah He rent his cloths and put sack on his flesh Then he with meat would not himself refresh This King did lye in great humilitie In sack also a mourner went softly Then came the word from the great Jehovaâ— Unto his faithfull Prophet Elijah To whom he said Behold how before me Ahab the King in sackloth most humblie Doth lye and fast I promise for this thing In his lifetime judgements I will not bring â—ut because I am a GOD righteous My plagues after shall come upon his house Then Israel living without all feare â—or three yeers space was free of bloody warre â—ith Syria The third yeer it befell â—saphat came to the King of Isâ—a'l â—ven King Ahab who to his servants said â—now ye not well that Ramoth in Gilead 〈◊〉 ours by right and yet we care no thing 〈◊〉 to rescue from the great Syrians King To Josaphat Ahab said so and so â—ilt thou O King to Ramoth with me go 〈◊〉 fight against the Syrian armie â—th horse and man at thy service shall be â—id good Josaphat But this I desire â—at thou this day at the Lords word enquire Then King Ahab gath'red together there â—s false Prophets the matter to declare 〈◊〉 them he said now give me your counsell â—'gainst Ramoth I shall goe in Battell 〈◊〉 up said they for so God doth command â—ho shall surely shute Ramoth in thine hand Josaphat said yet farther I desire 〈◊〉 there not heere of whom we may enquire Prophet of the Lord besides yet one â—ere is said Ahab Micajah the Son Imlah whom I hate for he for me Hath never good in all his prophesie Josaphat said Let not the King say so We heard the rest we will heare him also Thus Ahab sent for Micajah that day To heare also what he to them could say Then these two Kings sate in great dignitie Each on his Throne adorn'd with Majestie In the entrance of Samarias gate Waiting upon Micajah the Prophet Before he came the Prophets pleasantlie Unto these Kings did good things prophecie Zedekiah Son of Chenaanah With hornes of yron said Thus saith Jehovah With these yron hornes this I now give for doome The Syrians host thou shalt push and consume So likewise all the Prophets then by order Said unto him Goe to Ramoth and prosper The warre is Gods and good is thine earand The Lord shall Ramoth put into thine hand He that was gone for to call Micajah Said unto him Behold from Jehovah All the Prophets speake good with one accoâ— Vnto the King So also let thy word Be like to theirs be not too strict and rude But to the King speake thou that which is good Then him answer'd the Prophet Micajah â—s God
â—is man rebell'd against the Royall seed â—en Jehoram the King of Israel â—saphats help desired in Battell â—gainst Moab He said with horse and man â—gainst Moab I will do what I can â—or thee and thine Thus the King Jehoram â—ith Josaphat and the King of Edom â—ent to that war three Kings in company â—esolv'd to fight against Moab stoutly â—id of seven dayes journey fetch a compasse â—t had no water for man horse or asse â—as said Joram it is great pitie â—at we three Kings by Moabs great armie â—ould be destroy'd Then Josaphat did say 〈◊〉 there not heer some good Prophet this day Behold said one the Prophet Elisha â—hich water on the hands of Elijah â—id powre Then said Jehosaphat the King 〈◊〉 pleaseth me to heare of that saying â—or a good man he is in work and word â—et us him hear for with him is the Lord 〈◊〉 these three Kings went downe to Elisha 〈◊〉 know what he would say from Jehovah Then good Elisha to Jehoram King These words of wrath had unto him saying To speak to thee I have no great desire Go to thy fathers Prophets and enquire Were it not that I did regard surelie Jehoshaphat I would not look on thee But now that I what is to come may tell Bring unto me a most cunning Minstrell When he did play then soon it came to passâ— That on Elisha the hand of GOD was Then said Elisha make ditches quickly In great aboundance in this faire valley Thus saith the LORD yee neither wâ— nor raine Shall see and yet the ditches of the plaine Shall be filled with water that yee may Both yee and all your cattell drink this dayâ— This thing is light GOD may it soone câ—mand The Moabites he shall put in your hand And yee shall smite ev'ry fenced citie And al 's yee shall fell downe evry good trâ— Yee shall also their wells of water stop That in their thirst they receive not a drop As he had said so water came anone Wâ—th abundance by the way of Edom. When Moabites heard that the Kings that day â—re come to fight they in their best aray â—th armour bright then all stood in the border â—s for Battell these men were set in order When Moabites rose in the morning soon â—old the Sun upon these waters shone â—e Sun beames made these waters to seeme red â—e Moabites said surely it is blood â—e Kings surely have one another slaine â—e spoile for us now safely doth remaine â—en they came to the Camp of Israel â—e Israelites upon them fiercely fell â—hat they fled from Isra'l speedily â—o did them chase unto their own countrey â—eir cities fair they did beat down at last â—on their fields each man a stone did cast 〈◊〉 of his sling and stopped every well â—eir fairest trees also they did down fell When Moabs King saw the Battell too sore â—t him he tooke seven hundred men therefore 〈◊〉 break even throw unto great Edoms King 〈◊〉 finding that he could not do that thing 〈◊〉 eldest Son he tooke before them all â—hom for an offring he burnt on the wall â—is eldest Son belong'd to Edoms King Whom Moab had as Captive in keeping When Edom saw that for to save his Son Isra'l would not breake up that siege right soâ— He in his heart being full of fury Against Isr'al return'd to his country Then a certaine poor afflicted widow Came to Elisha with grief and sorrow Saying My husband a Prophet is dead Thou know'st right well that he the LOâ— indeed Did feare And now alas the creditour Is come to take my two sons at this hour To be bond men To her with great pitie Elijah said what shall I do for thee Tell me said he what hast thou in thine hoâ— A pot of oyle said she who had no spouse Goe said Elisha and vessels borrow From thy neighbours yea borrow not a few When thou comes in then shut the dooâ— hinde For Gods blessing on that oyle thou shalt find When she her pot in these vessels did powre All the vessels were filled in that houre When all was sought there were no vessels mâ— In all the house the oyle did stay therefore How all was done she to the Prophet told â—o did appoint all the oyle to be sold â—â—ay debt of the first and readiest 〈◊〉 after that to live upon the rest After all this it fell upon a day â—t to Shunem Elisha had his way â—ere was a woman full of charitie 〈◊〉 him constrained her guest for to be 〈◊〉 so it was as oft as he did passe 〈◊〉 them he entred and no stranger was Then said she to her husband lovingly â—s man of God which often passeth by 〈◊〉 a good man to us a matter small â—ill be for him to build on the wall â—hamber with a table stoole a bed â—d candlestick If such a guest be fed â—o our house it shall be found our best â—so we do the LORD vvill blesse the rest So it fell that Elisha on a day 〈◊〉 to this house of Shunem made his way â—en said he to Gehazi his servant â—s Shunamite call thou incontinent â—hen she was come and did before him stand 〈◊〉 earnestly did desire t' understand â—hat thing he might for her great care procure â—th King Captaine whereof she might be sure Among mine owne people said shee I dwell Thou need'st not King nor yet the Captaâ— tell Of mine estate At last said Gehazi This is the point this is the veritie She hath no child in all her rich houshold To be their heire and al 's her Lord is old Then said Elisha about this season Of time of life thou shalt embrace a son Then said she to him Oh now do not lie To thine handmaid but speake the veritie So it befell that at the same season She did conceive and after bare a son When he was growne it fell upon a day That this young child with his father to play Went out among reapers at last he said Unto his father oh my head my head His father dear said to a lade shortly This sick child now to his mother cary When she him got she set him on her knee About the noone sicknesse made him to die Then she went up and laid him on the bed Of Elisha the dear servant of God On him she shut the doore and went away And to her husband thus and thus day say Send me I pray a young man with an asse That to Elisha I may shortly passe Why wilt thou go said he to her I pray 〈◊〉 is not new Moone nor yet sabbath day Yet let me go said she all shall be well â—er asse she sadled and came to Carmel â—nto Elisha so it came to passe â—hen he her saw wondring what matter was â—e said anone to servant Gehazi â—he Shunamite behold what can this be â—o run and meet her from this mount Carmel â—nd know of her if all at home do well â—ll well said she then at
Jehovah â—ke Jeroboams or like Baasha â—ikewise in the portion of Jezreel â—he dogges shall eat the flesh of Jezebel â—r her vile sins and her most bloody furie â—hen shee is dead none shall her carcase burie When this young man had thus all these tâ— said The doore he op'ned and with speed he fled When this was done one said unto Jehuâ— Wherefore to thee came now this mad fellow Then said he this mans communication Yee well know I need no more expression All is most false said they which thou doâ— Now tell us truely what thou heard'st this 〈◊〉 I will not faine said he but will you tell He me anointed hath King of Isra'l When these men heard of Jehu this sayinâ— They trumpets blew and cri'd Jehu is Kinâ— So Jehu King ' gainst Joram did conspire To Jezreel he in wrath hot like fire Rod in charet for there Joram to slay With Ahazia who was come that day To see Joram who there cured his wounds Made by Hazael fighting in his bounds Then on a high tower in faire Jezreel Stood a watch-man who to the King did I clearely see a huge great company Then Joram said take an horseman quickly And send to meet them to them let him Is it for peace that ye come so this day When he thus said stout Jehu in a rage Said turne behinde me a most sure presage 〈◊〉 bloody warre The watchman this seeing â—ow all appear'd declar'd unto the King Yet once againe a horseman to them send â—id King Joram that what these men intend â—e may now know then went that second man â—ho one horseback to Jehus armie ran â—d said whether peace or war intend yee 〈◊〉 him Jehu al 's said Turne behind me â—en said the watchman in words true and plaine 〈◊〉 came to them but commeth not againe â—hink I see Jehu son of Nimshi â—r in driving he doth drive furiously Then Joram said make shortly ready now â—at in our charets we against Jehu â—y goe Then Joram armed went anone â—th Ahazia his own sisters Son â—g of Judah he went to that Battel â—d met Jehu in the plat of Jezre'l â—ere Naboth died When Joram saw Jehu â—cri'd aloud Is it peace for us now What peace said he as long as Jezebel â—ne ill mother with whooredomes doth rebell â—l al 's witchcrafts Then Joram turn'd quickly Ahaziah and said treachery Then Jehu drew a bow in anger hote 〈◊〉 Jehoram betweene the armes he shote The piercing arrow went out at his heart And he anone sanke downe in his charet Then said Jehu to Bidkar his Captaine Take up this corps and cast it with disdaine On Naboths field When we did serve Ahab We heard by God this burden on him laide Surely said God I have seene yesterday The blood of Naboth In this plat repay I will that murder in that plat of ground Let him be cast that the Lord may be found Both just and true When Ahaziah King This slaughter saw he in his heart fainting With all his might in his charet did flie And Jehu after follow'd him quicklie To smite him al 's his servants he did spurre With cryes who smote him going up to Guâ— Which is by Ibla'm he to Megiddo Did flie anone and there he died also Then Jehu came with haste to Jezreel Where was the witch and vile whoore Jezebâ— When she it heard she then painted her face And tyr'd her head with folies in that place She looked out and said unto Jehu Had Zimri peace who his own Master slew Then Jehu lifting up his face unto The window said who is on my side who To him three Eunuches looked out anone 〈◊〉 them he said see that ye throw her downe â—d so they did so that then from the wall â—r sprinkled blood on the Horses did fall â—ere King Jehu in zeale and anger hot â—eene Jezebel quickly troad under foot When he was come in for to eate and drinke Jezebel he began thus to thinke â—e see now this cursed woman said he â—r she is a Kings daughter verily â—e burie her they went at his commands â—t onely the skull feet palms of her hands â—ey found the greedy dogs got all the rest â—en Jehu heard this he esteemed best thinke of that which Propet Elijah â—d threatned from his Master Jehovah In the same place of pleasant Jezreel â—e dogs shall eate the flesh of Jezebel â—rvile carkase as doung upon the field â—all be no faird or force shall there it shield â—hile her dead bones scattred in Jezreel â—all be none shall say This is Jezâ—bel Thus this ill wife of wicked King Ahab â—st Queene last queane a vile and dirty drab â—as to the dogs by the Lord given for meat â—ho did her eat except skull palms and feet In Samria King Ahab had then Of sons that were in count threescore and ten Then Jehu wrote to these of Jezreel And Samaria see if ye expell My forces can Of Ahab take a Son And see if ye darre set him on the Throne They at these wordes were then exceeding lie Afraid and said it were to us folie To fight a man whose force and mighty hand Two great Kings were not able to withstand Therefore the Rulers sent unto Jehu Saying We are thy humble servants now What thou desirest now command and say With one consent we will Jehu obey Then Jehu wrote to them of the citie If ye be mine and will hearken to me Take the Sons of Ahab and Jezebel And send their heads to me in Jezreel Threescore and ten Sons of Ahab they slew Their heads in baskets they sent to Jehu What they had done men told unto the King Who said lay them in heaps till the morning So Jehu King direct'd by th' Eternel Slew all that Ahab had in Jezreel Both all his great men his kinsfolks and Priests None would he save for prayer or requests Then from Jezreel Jehu went away â—to Samaria there he by the way â—d meet comeing Ahazias brethren 〈◊〉 them he said who or what sort of men â—e ye said they we are of Royall blood â—e are come downe so it seems to us good â—ndly to sâ—e the children of the King â—d them salute we meane none other thing Then said Jehu take all these men alive â—ho are in number thirty seven and five â—ey to obey the precepts of Jehu â—d take them all and at a pit them slew After Jehu did meet Jehonadab â—ho was the Son of one called Rechab 〈◊〉 him he said Is thine heart right with me 〈◊〉 mine with thee He said it is truely â—en said Jehu give to me now thine hand â—ter my Coch as King I thee command â—w come said he according to my word â—d see what zeal I have had for the Lord. Then Jehu came unto Samaria 〈◊〉 the direction of the great Jovah 〈◊〉 Ahabs race he left not one at all â—ho after him did pisse against the wall â—us he fulfill'd the words of Jehovah â—hich he before did
there came a thousand and seven teene â—f Levites were a hundred thirty nine â—ith Nethinims all with courage divine â—ith them servants of Solomons children â—l for to build were well prepared then â—he Priests which could not shew their pedigree â—ere not permitted in priests place to be â—he Tirshatha who did the rest command â—ould not permit that any tooke in hand â—hat any should of holy things make feast â—ll with Urim and Tummim came a Priest â—he whole number were fourty two thousand â—hree hundred threescore Jews from Babels land â—sides servants and maids for service given â—ere seven thousand three hundred thirtie seven â—ith horses seven hundred six and thirty â—ith mules two hundred five and al 's fourty â—eir Camels were foure hundred thirty five â—ith them they did six thousand asses drive â—ith seven hundred and also twentie more â—e rich all freely offred to restore â—he house of GOD and build it in his place â—hey all offred as GOD gave them the grace 〈◊〉 thousand dramnes of gold without delay â—e thousand pound of silver they did pay A hundred Priests garments they did prepare Which their courage in building did declare Chap. 3. THen first of all came Prince Zerubabel With Jeshua Priest for the Eternel They for the Lord a faire Altar did reare To offer to him who was Isaks feare Their willingnesse clearely for to declare To offer then they in no way did spare The workmen well rewarded were no slack Each man his charge did gladly undertake When the foundations of Gods house were cast Some had great joy Others were all agast And weeped sore even these who first had seene What glory in Solomons works had beene Of joy andd weeping such was then the noise That hardly could one well discerne the voice Chap. 4 VVHen this great worke begun was 〈◊〉 Gods grace Then wicked men anone it to disgrace Rose up by craft deceit and policie Offring them selves with them builders to be But not accepted they in open way â—em for to hinder proudly did essay â—shlam Mithridath Tabeel and Rekum â—e Chancelor and Shimshai Scribe did come â—gether and against Jerusalem 〈◊〉 Artaxerxes they wrote letters then â—ewing that stubborne Jews who were proudly â—bellious were rebuilding their city â—en quickly back the King to them did write â—at they the work anone should interdite â—en ceasd the work untill the second yeare 〈◊〉 Darius King who Persias crowne did beare Chap. 5. â—Hen Zerubabel and Shealtiel both Whom GOD with vertue from above did cloath â—ey by Haggai and al 's by Zecharie â—ing stirr'd up did with all industrie â—t forward the great work they had in hand â—he rest obey'd and they did well command â—tnai and Shether-boznai were their foes 〈◊〉 hinder them they did a letter close â—d sent it to Darius Persias King â—ewing that Cyrus had done the like thing â—d now they this of Darius did desire â—hat he of Cyrus decree would enquire Who would not suffer this great house to be Rebuilded because of their mutinie Chap. 6. THen Darius the King made a decree That in the house of rolls a search should be Made by his servants with all diligence And there was found within the Medes Province A roll wherein was written a record Which did containe the decree word by word Which Cyrus made Gods house for to restore The height whereof should be cubits threescore The breadth as much and the expenses shall From the Kings owne house shall be taken all When Darius found this enrolled decree He it confirm'd and ordaind all to be Provided so that they should nothing want Which might them help either to build oâ— plant But yee Tatnai and Shetherboznai see That to this great work ye no hinder bee Also I have made a decree most fast That who soever alter this word past The timber from his house shall be pull'd dowâ— And shall be set up and he hang'd thereon And that the greater feare mens hearts may fill â—is house for this shall be made a dounghill â—nd God that hath his name causd there to dwell â—estroy shall all Kings and people that shall â—ut to their hand to Alter or destroy â—his house of GOD who doth me now employ â—or this great work for this I a decree â—ave made let all be done right speedilie â—hen this was heard the Jews with diligence â—id build and the King did pay the expence They prosp'red much through the sweet prophecie â—f Haggai and likewise of Zacharie In the sixt year of Darius the King â—he Jews GODS house unto the cope did bring â—he Priests having this good occasion â—id keep the feast of dedication â—nd the Passeouer with joy and gladnesse â—or God had looked on their sore distresse And made them joyfull for he turn'd the heart Of Darius great kindnesse to impart â—o the builders which he did still extend Untill that great worke was brought to an end Chap. 7. NOw in the seventh year of the happy reigne Of Artaxerxes of great Babel King Ezra the Scribe with his most cunning speacâ— Came from Babel to Salem for to teach Gods people where this good man found anâ— Gods gracious hand there to be him upon For Ezra had prepared well his heart To seeke and search Gods law in every part He Gods statutes and judgements al 's did preâ— Unto Israel both by workes and speach Unto Ezra great Artaxerxes King Commission gave that he with every thing Needfull for Gods house should be furnish'd wâ— This Ezra got under the Kings broad seal The King with his counsellers did agree Both gold and silver to give most freelie For that effect The King al 's did ordaine That what silver scribe Ezra could obtaine From People Priests all should be by and by Imployed for God rammes and lambes to buy For sacrifice and what should be wanting Should all be furnish'd by Darius King Who did with speede his Treasurers command To have all such things ready in their hand Even Silver Wheat and Salt and Oyle 〈◊〉 Wine To be for God from the King a propine For why said he Should God wrath fearful briâ— Against the realme or against the King When this was done Ezra rejoic'd greatlie â—at God had mov'd the King to beautifie â—s house in Salem and that he in end â—s mercy to him richly did extend â—â—en said he I was streth'ned mightilie 〈◊〉 the hand of the Lord was upon me â—â—en I did gather out of Israel â—o go with me ev'n men which did excell Chap. 8. â—Hen diverse from Babel with Ezra went Men who in vertue were most excellent â—en to the river that to Ahana â—oth run they were all gath'red by Ezra â—ere we abode in tents ev'n three dayes space â—t could not finde any of Levis race â—ter we had both Priests and people view'd â—erefore to diverse I would have it shew'd â—at they for Gods house should then quicklie bring â—en that were wise and fit for ministring Then by the good hand of
the Lord our God â—ey brought unto us men of knowledge good â—e sons of Mahli the sons of Levi number eighteene with other twentie â—en I proclaim'd a fast there said Ezra Even hard besids the river Ahava That we our selves there where me may abodâ— Might sore afflict before th' Almighty God To seek of him a way with diligence Both for our selves our sons and our substancâ— For I thought shame to seek from the King theâ— A band of Souldiers and al 's of Horsemen Us to protect against our foes for I Had to the King uttred this speach boldly The hand of GOD will surely their part taâ— That do him feare But these that him forsakâ— And with profane walk in the wicked path They surely shall feel the dint of his wrath So we besought the Lord with hunmble fast And he intreated was of us at last When this was done Ezra great quantitie Of silver gold and fine copper quickly Causd to be weighed to the Priests and them He ordain'd all to bring unto Salem On the twelft day of the first mon'th Ezra Departed from the river Ahava That we unto Jerusalem might goe GOD by his hand us sav'd from every foe So we unto Salem came in safetie Wherein the Temple we did clearly see The silver gold well weighed then anone We did deliver our commission Unto the Kings Livetenents whose abode â—as on this side of the river of God â—he house they did most carefully prepare â—hereby they did their diligence declare Chap. 9. â—Hen Ezra was kindled with holy rage Because the people had in mariage â—ken the daughters of a wicked race â—e holy seed thus did themselves disgrace 〈◊〉 among these most wicked Nations â—ey follow'd their abominations â—t let the commons of the people passe â—e great Princes were chiefe in this trespasse When I this thing did hear I quickly rent â—th greefe of heart my mantle and garment â—oni'd I sat downe my heart did bleed â—e haire I pluckt both off my beard and head Then came to me numbers with one accord â—o with their hearts did truely fear the LORD â—ey greeved were for their wicked practise â—te astoni'd till even sacrifice â—en I arose up from my heavinesse â—ing my mantle in my sore distresse â—t with my garment then upon my knees â—ll downe and to God did lift mine eyes Spreading my hands out to his Majestie And said O God to lift my face to thee I am asham'd for even over our head Our sins are greatly increased indeed And our trespasse against thy holy name Up to the Heav'ns is growen up to our shame Since the dayes of our fathers we have seen That we in great trespasse have surely been Unto this day and for our sins have we Our Kings our Priests been to captivitie And spoile deliv'red and to shame of face As we this day do feele with great disgrace And now the Lord to us with sorrowes prest A little space hath made grace manifest That we escape might danger and disgrace And get a naile in his most holy place That so our God might lighten cleare our eyes And in our bondage give a little ease For we who are Gods chosen heritage Among our foes were captives in bondage But God to us extended hath mercy Even in the sight of Kings who mightily In Persia rule that he so by this thing Might unto us even give a reviving For to set up GODS house with buildinâ— faire And desolations thereof well repaire â—nd so in Salem and al 's in Judah 〈◊〉 get a wall from the great JEHOVAH And now our GOD alas what shall we say â—r we thy precepts have despisd this day â—â—d cleane forsaken for in lustfull rage â—ith the heathen we have in mariage â—fil'd our selves in our trespasses we â—fore thy face at this time stand guiltie Chap. 10. VVHen Ezra thus did pray and weepe right sore â—d cast himselfe downe the LORDS house before â—en Jehiels son called Shechaniah 〈◊〉 answere soone and said unto Ezra â— have trespassd against the LORDS command have espousde the strange wives of the land for all this we truely heere may tell â—t touching this there 's hope in Israel â—herefore now let us make without delay â—h GOD a Cov'nant for to put away â—h all the wives and children most forlorne â—ch of these wives have hitherto been borne â—e Ezra for this matter to thee â—ngeth also we with thee will be Be of courage and do as ye now hear Then rose Ezra and made Isra'l to swear That they should do according to his word Then Ezra before the house of the LORD Rose and quickly into the chamber went Of Johanan where he was miscontent For their sins who had beene cari'd away He ate no bread no water in that day He drank at all and they proclaim'd quickly Unto the children of captivity Through all Judah and Salem that together They should themselves for this good purpoâ— gather Then within three dayes as they did ordaine They greatly mourn'd for their sinnes and fâ—raine Then Ezra Priest stood up and al 's did tell By wives yee have increasd sins in Isra'l Therefore unto your fathers God confesse To do his pleasure see that ye professe Sever your selves from the men of the land And from strange wives Then all did taâ— in hand While they heard Ezra speaking thus that day That as he said they gladly would obey That GOD might turne away his anger hote Which kindled was by such a filthie spot They gave their hands that they would put away â—heir wives and being most guilty that day â—s God ordained so it came to passe 〈◊〉 ramme they offred for their great trespasse The Use â—eere learne that though GOD with great miserie â—fflict his Church in long captivitie â—et at the last before that they be shent 〈◊〉 of the evil will surely him repent Zerubbabel with his precepts school'd 〈◊〉 can raise up Jerusalem to build â—r manners good he can finde out a scribe 〈◊〉 learn'd Ezra wise precepts to prescribe â—ee wil not want if it then needfull be good Haggai and faithfull Zacharie â—a Cyrus his ordinance recall Darius he for to build the wall â—n raise who by a most constant decree â—ll furnish all that thereto needfull be See how the LORD can wisely with a beck A winke a vvord the greatest things direct THE GARDEN OF ZION The Booke of Nehemiah A Prayer THy workes are wondrous as all men mâ— see Thy Phoebus bright careering on the sky Comes foorth pompous like a Bridgroomâ— light Thy starres like nailes of gold decore the nighâ— Thou sends thy winds justing among the clouds They roare they stirre the bubbling waâ— floods What god O GOD can be compar'd to thee ' â—ho art great Ruler both of land and sea â—rant unto me that in my sacred layes 〈◊〉 may expresse the glory of thy wayes By Zerubabel thou thy Temple faire â—ebuilt by Ezra thou didst well repaire â—hat was amisse in manners
one the dry land â—s for our foes thou didst them all anone â—nto the deepes throw downe as a great stone Moreover thou them leddest in the day â—ven by a cloudy pillar thou the way â—hem shew by night by a pillar of fire â—hou didst them guide as their hearts could dâ—sire Thou camest dawne with great pompe and with might Vpon mount Sinai and from heav'ns most bright â—hou spak'st with them and gav'st them right judgements â—rue Lawes good statutes and commandements And madest them thy sabbaths understand And statutes Laws ordain'st by Moses hand And from the heav'n gav'st bread to them hungry And from the rock gav'st drink to them thirsty And promisedst that they should sure possesse The land which thou had by thy Holinesse Sworne them to give but they dealt most proudly As our fathers and hardned most stifly Their necks so they wicked stood not in aâ— They hearkned not unto thy blessed Law They stubburnly refused to obey The great wonders which they saw every dâ— They did forget their necks as in a rage They hardned and to turne to their bâ—dage They made a Captaine in rebellion But thou art a God ready to pardon Most gracious and unto anger slow Of kindnesse great which rich doth overflâ— Yea more when they a molten Calfe 〈◊〉 made And in great rage most wickedly had said This is thy GOD which from Egypt brougâ— thee By this they did the Lord provoke highly Yet thou in mercy them in their distresse Forsookest not even in the wildernesse The cloudy pillar with darknesse by day Them from their foes did hide while iâ— the way Of the red sea they march'd in the daâ—night 〈◊〉 fiery pillar went before with light â—hy good Sprit also unto them thou gave â—uâ— didst provide that they might Manna have 〈◊〉 meat in thirst when they thee did provoke â—ou gavest water from the flinty rock 〈◊〉 fourty years thou in the wildernesse stained so that in greatest distresse â—ey lacked nothing they fear'd not the cold 〈◊〉 all that time their cloathes did not waxe old 〈◊〉 more in this GODS mercies did excell 〈◊〉 their marching their feete did never swell â—ou gav'st them Kingdomes and they did possesse â—th Sihons land and Ogs in wildernesse â—ou did them blesse and multiplie their seed â—s Starres in Heaven that were above their head â—fter they had past through the wildernesse â—e promisde land thou made them to possesse â—ou in their hands gave these Kingdomes and Kings And made them Masters for to rule all things Within these bounds and also to command Their strongest cities and their fattest land They did possesse houses full of all goods Vineyards and wells digged and Oliveyards And pleasant fruit trees in great abundance Which God apponited for their maintenance So they did eat they filled with fatnesse They lusty did delight in thy goodnesse Neverthelesse they disobedient Rebell'd proudly ' gainst thy commandemenâ— Behind their backs they did reject thy Law To slay thy Prophets they stood not in aw Because against them they did testifie That from their ill wayes they might turne 〈◊〉 thee But they wicked by their transgressions Against God wrought great provocations Therefore for their greevous iniquities Thou them delivere'dst to their enemies Who them did vex with much trouble and feare Yet when they cri'd thou from heav'n didst theâ— heare According to thy manifold mercies â—ou gav'st them saviours from their enemies â—em for to save but when prosperitie â—nd rest they got they rebell'd against thee â—herefore in wrath thou left them in the hand â—f cruel foes whom they could not gainstand â—et when returning they cri'd unto thee â—hou hard'st from Heav'n their grones of miserie By frequent rods thou mad'st them stand in awe â—hem for to bring againe unto thy Law â—et they dealt proudly and refus'd to heare â—hey sinned still ' gainst thy judgements severe â—ith hardned neck the shoulder they withdrewe â—nd would not hear nor yet their life renew â—et many yeers thou didst them still forbeare â—ea and reprov'd yet would they not give eare â—herefore in wrath thou gav'st them in the hands â—f the most cruell people of the lands â—everthelesse for thy great mercies sake â—hou utterly them wouldest not forsake Now therefore LORD who art great aâ— mighty Who Cov'nant keepest in thy great mercy Let not this greef seeme little thee before That on our kings princes and priests lyes sorâ— Al 's on our prophets fathers people all Not sparing any either great or small Since the tyme of the strong Assyrian kings Vnto this day such is the case of things Howbeit in all that is upon us brought Thou art most just and truely hast done nought But what is right and full of equity But we alas all have done wickedly Neither our kings our princes or our priests Did keep thy law or yet care for thy hests Or hearken unto thy Testimonie Wherewith thou didst against them testifie For in their kingdome they would not thee serve But still profanely from thy law did swerve Behold we are servants alas this day And for the land that thou didst give for ay To our fathers the fruit thereof to eat Behold in it as drudges we must sweat It yeeldeth much increase unto the kings Whom over us thou hast set for our sins Ov'r our bodies they domination have And cattell they us at their pleasure slave Thus we afflicted are in great distresse Because of this we all both more and lesse A Cov'nant sure both make and write it well And to it set our Priests and Princes seal Chap. 10. NOw these that sealed were Nehemiah The Tirshatha son of Hachaliah â—nd Zidkijah with Priests Levits Porters â—nd singers al 's Nethinims with others Who having knowledge to their brethren clave â—nd made an oath that they should so behave â—hemselves wisely to walk in the Lords Law â—nd that to sinne they all should stand in aw We also vow'd by counsell grave and sage â—either to take nor give in mariage â—ut to abhor the people of the land â—o do the same we made a solemne band â—so we did ordaine without delay â—ot to permit markets on sabbath day â—nd that also we would leave the seventh yeere â—nd from exacting of debts would forbeare Also we did ordaine to charge yearly Our selves with the third part of good money Of a shekel this was for the service Of GODS owne house made for his sacrifice Then we cast lots Levites and Priests among For the wood offrings which then did belong Unto GODS house on his Altars to burne According as GODS law ordain'd by turne Likewise to GODS house we ordain'd to bring The first fruâ—ts of all trees and every thing The first borne of our children and cattell We year by year brought unto th'Eternel With first of all things that Levits could crave The tithes in all wherein we tillage have Chap. 11. THen they ordain'd the tenth man of Isra'l To come and in Jerusalem to
daunce with women she had al 's her soâ— She did her selfe in godly words expresse With gifts adorn'd she was a Prophetesse She had her faults in her most holy life She greeved MOSES by her words of strife She with ARON the ill quarel began For ZIPPORAH the Ethiopian Tush tush said they hath God spoken onâ— By MOSES and not by us as plainely This Moses heard but being very meek From God in wrath he no revenge did seeke But God in wrath when he these things did Unto them cri'd Come out come out ye three Though I my wrath against you have delay'd To greeve Moses how were ye not afraide 〈◊〉 proud in heart inferiour in place 〈◊〉 you by dreams to him I speake by face â—hen GOD had showne how they had gone astray 〈◊〉 kindled wrath and rage he went away â—â—en this was done behold a great sorrow â—â—RIE became leprous white as the snow â—â—er her flesh was consum'd by the Lord â—â—ses did pray and then she was restor'd â—â—cause God was provoked by her sinne 〈◊〉 died in the wildernesse of ZIN â—â—nsider heere two brethren and MARIE â—pointed guids for Israel to be â—â—cause by sinne they stirred up Gods wrath Canaan they might not tread the path 〈◊〉 on HOR Moses at NEBO steep â—â—y in Zin by death did softly sleep 〈◊〉 wildernesse AMRAMS three children deare â—â—eir life did finish in the fourtie yeere The Use â—ost godlie hearts vaine pride doth whiles assault â—â—ey live not heere that live without a fault â—th carefulnesse let men and vvomen try 〈◊〉 â—t in their hearts no place bee for envy BALAK A Robber BALAAM A Devorer After that Isra'l in battell fighting Had overcome strong Og of Bashan Kâ— BALAK king of Moab son of ZIPPOR Sent men for Bala'm the son of BEOR Who dwelt in Pethor to him they did say Behold from Egypt in battell aray A people is come who is most mighty In number great for to fight against me Come now therefore I pray thee without Curse Israel that so I may prevaile For this I wot that he whom thou shalt bleâ— Shall be blessed and curs'd whom thou curse So the Elders that were of Moab land Departed with great rewards in their hand They came unto BALAAM and thus spake Unto him the words of their King BALAK He said to them Lodge heere this night suâ— I shall you tell what the Lord saith to me And God came unto BALAAM and said What men are these that doe with thee abiâ— And Bala'm said to God Balak surelie The son of ZIPPOR hath sent unto me Bâ—hold saith he from Egypt a great band 〈◊〉 souldiers that cover all the land â—me curse me them peradventure I shall â—able for to overcome them all â—d God said to BALA'M Thou shalt not goe â—th them thou shalt not curse the people so â—r they are bless'd BALA'M in the morning â—se up and went to BALAKS men saying â—e Princes of King BALAK get ye now â—o your owne land for to go with you â—e mightie Lord will not give leave to me â—en the Princes of Moab most early â—se up and unto their King BALAK went â—d said BALA'M for thy commandement â—â—th no wise care hee proud of his wisedome â—ainely refuseth with us for to come â—d Balak sent againe by the same way â—inces that were more respectfull then they â—ho said to him Balak son of Zippor â—ith great desire hath us all sent thee for 〈◊〉 bids us say Let nothing I pray thee â—ee hinder from now coming unto me 〈◊〉 will promote thee for thy great wisedome â—herefore to curse this people shortly come â—hen to Balaks servants Bala'm most bold â—id If Balak of silver and of gold Would his house full me give I not therefore Could go beyond the Lords word lesse or mâ— Yet all this night heere tary I you pray That I may know what more the LORD will And GOD came unto Balaam at night And said to him What was most just and rigâ— If these men come againe for to call thee Rise up and al 's go with them speedilie But yet the word that I shall to thee say That shalt thou do most carefully alway And Balaam rose up in the morning And on his asse went unto Moabs King But Gods anger was then incontinent Kindled because he with these Princes went And the Angel of the great God that day For adversarie stood there in the way Thus on his asse he rode Balak unto And his two servants were with him also And the asse saw the Angel of the Lord In the way standing with a glistring Sword And the asse turn'd aside out of the way And went into the field without delay And Balam smote the asse with great disdaine To turne her soone into the way againe But the angel of the Lord in great wrath Of the vineyards stood in a narrow path Which on both sides was fenced with a wall 〈◊〉 when the asse for fear ready to fall 〈◊〉 the Angel of the Lord in the way â—till the Wall she did without delay â—sh Balams foot then he inflamed hote â—th staffe in hand the asse in fury smote â—en the Lord op'ned the mouth of the asse â—â—o said to Balam What is my trespasse â—â—y dost thou strike What have I done to thee â—at thou hast so me smitten these times three â—n Balam said unto the asse surely â—cause thou hast in the way mocked me â—ould there were a Sword in mine hand still â—r now I would in wrath thee surely kill â—en said the asse Am I not thine alway 〈◊〉 which thou hast ridden ev'n to this day â—as I before wont so to do to thee â—y said Balam thou didst not so to me â—en Balam's eyes the Lord without delay â—'ned who saw Gods Angel in the way â—ith his sword drawen then he in the same place â—w'd down his head and fell flat on his face â—en said the Angel For what great trespasse â—st thou these three times thus smitten thine asse â—â—hold I went out for to withstand thee â—â—cause thy way is perverse before me Thine asse a beast did well for thee provide She fearing me turned three times aside Unlesse she had from Me thus turn'd away I had her sav'd and had slain thee this day Then Balam said I have the LORDS commanâ— Broken by sin for that thou heer didst stand I did not know Now therefore without let If thou be wroth back soone I will me get No said the Angel unto Balam then Now take thine own will and go with the menâ— But only speak that which I speak to thee So Balam went towards Balak quickly When Balak heard this he incontinent To meet Balaam to a city went Of Moab land in borders of Arnon Which is the outmost coast lying alone Then Balak said unto Balam Did I Not send for thee to call thee by and by Wherefore came thou not at the first to me Am I not able for to honour thee And Balam said
in their hand Then these proud men bitter like angrie bees Took poor Samson and put out both his eyes With hard fetters of brasse they did him bind In a prison as horse they made him grind Soon after that his hair began to spring These lords him brought to Dagons house their king Dagon said they the god of sea and land Hath now inclosed Samson in our hand Then all the people greatly did rejoice And praised Dagon with a joyfull voice Then all merry and glad they did exhort To call for Samson for to make them sport When he was come Lad take me by the hand Said he Lead me where the pillar doth stand Upon the which the house is founded sure That I thereon may lean my body poor The house was full three thousand on the roofe To see Samson of sporting give a proofe Then Samson pray'd unto the Lord with cryes Now grant me Lord a revenge for mine eyes Twixt the pillars with his left hand and right He pull'd them downe by great JEHOVAHS might Such was the end of his dayes full of strife At death he slew mo then he slew in life The Use Heere wee may learne yea clearely wee may seâ— That cruell men are met with crueltie Heere is a lesson for to guide our life Not to reveale great secrets to a wife 14 MICAH Who is like the Lord. THe word of God most clearely doth reveale How MICAH did his mothers silver steele Yea which was worse and did merite the rods Of it he made graven and molten gods A Teraphim he had and an Ephod And so became Apostate from his God A wandring Levite he hir'd for his Priest His house for idols he made like a beast Now I know well that God will do me good Said MICAH who was most foolish and rude The LORD will lodge both in mine house and breast Because I have a Levite for my Priest In these dayes which was a most fearefull thing â—n all Isra'l was neither judge nor King â—he DANITS then seeking inheritance Came to the house of this Micah by chance His Levite and his silver gods they tooke When this was done MICAH began to looke To run and cry aloud after the men In number five come from the tribe of DAN What aileth thee said they What and wherefore My gods said he are stoll'n what have I more Let not thy voice now be heard us among Said they lest ill fellows upon thee throng It may fall out that if we come to strife Both thou and thine this day may losse the life Thus foolish MICAH Priest and gods that day Did losse and so the DANITS went their way The Use Let all men learne in Gods excellent schools Who worship idols are most brutish fooles Of the Levite and his Concubine IN these dayes which was a most feareful thing In all Isra'l was neither Judge nor King In these ill dayes what man could it endure A Levite had a wife that play'd the whoore She not fearing the terrours of JOVAH Ranne to her Father dwelling in JVDAH Foure whole moneths with him she did remaâ—â— Her husband went to bring her back againe There he with his father in law abode Where chearefully he was most welcomed From day to day he sought to turne againe But by his father was urg'd to remaine At last the fift day after all was done Hee went away well neere the afternoone Then parted he with his wife and servant They neere to JEBVS found the day far spenâ— The servant said In JEBUS let us lodge The Levite said To do such things I grudge We will not turne aside to that citie We will not lodge with these that strangers be We will passe over unto GIBEAH For there we trust is the fear of JOVAH When unto GI'BAH they were thus nâ— come The Sunne in his Horizon was gone downe Then he went in and sat downe in a streete But no man there with kindnesse did him greeâ— At last an old man lifting up his eye Come from the field did there perceive tâ— three Whence come ye said he Whether will yee We goe said they the house of God unto From BETHLEHEM we have both bread 〈◊〉 wine If thou us lodge we shall take none of thine Then said that old man Peace be now with thee Welcome thy want shall all lie upon me As they were eating with their hearts merrie Behold the vile villaines of that city Swarm'd in numbers of most vile rogues a rout The old mans house they compassed about Bring forth the man that came into thine house Cry'd they of him we will make carnall use This vice so vile with words I can not name Behold in Isra'l of SODOM the shame The old man said unto them most gravely I pray you cease oh cease from this folly This man is come under my house shadow Such great vilenesse the Lord cannot allow His wife my daughter if so be it must Abuse with man abhorre to spend your lust But for all this these men could not forbeare Raging in lust such words they would not hear When this was done and all remeed was past The Levite brought to them his wife at last These vile villains not trembling at Gods sight In their mad lust abus'd her all the night When darknesse past the cleare spring of the day Appear'd then these vile villains went away Then she whom they had handled like a whoore In the dawning fell downe dead at the doore At last the man op'ning the doore behold Her fall'n downe dead her hands on the thâ—â—shold Then to her thus lying her Lord did say Up up let us make ready for the way While he looked that she should rise with speâ— Behold his wife upon the threshold dead When the man saw what then was come to paâ— He tooke the corps and laid it on his asse When he her brought unto his house at home He with a knife cut her through flesh and bonâ— That the dead parts the wrong might clearly teâ— Twelve parts hee made and sent through ISRAEL They that this saw said A sinne of this kinde We have not seene advise and speake your minâ— Then all the land for this great sin much grieveâ— From end to end at MISPEH were conveened In number clearly set downe by GODS pen They there were foure hundred thousand foâ— men There the Levite in anguish and distresse At their desire declard the wickednesse This heard they all with one consent began To go to work to arise as one man Then said they all kindled with anger hot To the battell we will go up by lot Against vile Gib'ah to fight bitterly That they may smart for their unheard folly First through Benjamin speedy posts they sent That Gib'ahs men might suffer for their rent We seeke no more but when ye heare us then Ye send to us these vile and wicked men But Benjamin in a most foolish rage With mouth awry scorned the whole message Twentie six
Eli clearely understood It is the Lord said he what seemes him good Now let him do against both me and mine Against his sentence I will not repine What SAMUEL said to ELI more or lesse Upon ELI it shortly came to passe Then it was showne clearly by th' Eternel That Samuel was for to judge Israel The proud Philistins in his time came out Against Isra'l he put them to the rout He cri'd to God and God by thunder heard The Philistins under their feet he troad To shew his thanks to tell what God had done In the same place he wisely set a stone A stone of help for to declare Gods fame Eben-Ezer in Hebrew was its name In his old age when he was full of dayes His bribing sons did not walk in his wayes Then all the people greeved with this thing Cri'd with one voice Now let us have a King For now Samuel is old and full of dayes His bribidg sons doe not walk in his wayes Then God directed SAMUEL how to say That Isra'l had rejected God that day Go to go to hearken unto their voice Give them a King according to their choice Be plaine with them and hide from them nâ— thing Shew them clearely the manner of the King To war to till to reape in every point Of hard service your sons he will appoint Of your daughters who walk with lofty lookâ— He will make Bakeâ—s and vile sluttish cooks Your fields and yards which are the most pleâ—sant He will take and give to his owne servants The tenth of your sheep and seed he will crave Your stout young men to his worke will hee have In all this bondage ye shall howl and say Alas but God shall not you hear that day But all this speach to them no change could bring No not said they but we will have a King As this people rebelliously would have A King so GOD a King unto them gave When this was done Samuel did testifie Before all ISRA'L his integritie Now I am old said he see my gray head I have been with you from my young childhood Now heere I am I gladly do accord Witnesse against me heere before the LORD Be plaine I pray you and now hide no thing For heere we are in presence of the King Whose Oxe whose Asse have I by wrong possessed By violence whom have I once oppressed What bribe tooke I therewith to blinde mine eye If it be so now let you testifie Then said they all as they well understood We know nothing in thee but what is good No man we know hath beene opprest by thee No bribe was able for to blinde thine eye God be witnesse said he and understand That now ye have not found ought in mine hand After this said he did them terrifie With fearfull thunders piercing through the skie The people then to him quakeing did say We have sinned to JOVAH for us pray Fear not said he but comfort to you take For his people the LORD will not forsake If ye cry to him he will hear your voice For he of you hath onely made his choice As for me I will not leave off to pray For you I will al 's teach you the good way Onely take heed and serve the Lord with fear So ye his goodnesse shall both see and hear But if ye carelesse do the wicked thing Ye shall be consum'd both ye and your king After SAMUEL though he was old and gray The proud King Agag in Gilgal did slay He was a man faithfull in every point Before his death two Kings he did anoint The Use Let Judges learne by Samuels historie To take good heed that no bribe blinde their eye THE GARDEN OF ZION The Kings SAUL Seeking THis Son of KIS from seeking hath his name His life with vice he stain'd his end with shame When he began his calling was but base Before his Crowne he sought his fathers Asse When at the first from the stuffe he came out Then the people with their voice made a shout The wordes they said in their lovely shouting Were that the Lord would safely keep the King About this time Nahash the Ammonite Against Jabesh made war with great despite Then Iabesh said Spare us and let us be A Covenant we will now make with thee But cruell Nahash burning in a rage By no fair words could his great wrath asswage No friends no friends said he now will we be Except we first now thrust out your right eye Seven dayes they sought an answere for to give They sent to Saul that he might them relieve Then Saul armed with companies out three Threw Ammon downe with a great victorie Saul by this valour was confirmed King Then all the people desir'd him to reigne When he was King even in his second yeere The Philistines with forces did appeare They of Charets strong thirtie thousand were Six thousand foot also prepar'd for war But Israel which was cause of great fear Disarmed was without both Sword and Spear The Philistines triumphing them above Did craftily from them all Smiths remove Yet for the Forks Axe Coulters Goads this while To sharpen them the Hebrews had a file When Saul this saw he greatly was afraid In caves and rocks the people did them hide Then Saul in fear not waiting on Samuel The seventh day off'red to GOD in Gilgal Then Samuel angry with his foolish haste Made both his eares to tingle with this blast Thou hast rebell'd thou hast done foolishlie Thy Kingdome no more shall abide with thee Then Jonathan went after secretly Between Bozez and Seneh two rocks hie To his servant he said Let us pursue God can us save by many or by few Before we go by this we will them try If while they see us they shall say Tary Then will we stand but if their words be so Come up to us untill them will we go They said Come up and that by way of mock WheÌ„ this was heard they both did climb the rock In that conflict with Philistins children Stout Jonathan did there slay twentie men Terrours from GOD his foes hearts made to shake All th' Hoast trembled the very earth did quake The LORD in armes glist'ring did fight that day He made his foes like snow to melt away The LORD of Hoasts by his great power and might Made these his foes one ' gainst another fight When th' Isralits of this mercy heard tell From holes and bores they rushed to Battell These who before for fear themselves did hide Stoutly their foes did beat both back and side They fought like Lions but anone a jar A fasting oath the victory did mar They durst not eat and therefore faint and few They could not throughly their strong foes pursue While Isra'l thus did faint for fault of meat Jonathan of a hony comb did eat Assoone as he had taste of that honie His sprite reviv'd enlightned was his eye What he did then it was by ignorance For he knew
frame Worthy the praise of good Jehoshaphat Whom good Asa King of Judah begat As in his name as Scriptures do record So in his life the judgement of the LORD Unto all men most clearly did appâ—are That man is wise whose heart the LORD doth feare This godly King did serve GOD in his dayes Because he walked fast in the first wayes Of David he to Baalim not sought But idols worship with great might downe brought He willing did what GOD did him command Therefore the Kingdome stable in his hand Was made by GOD then Judah to him brought Most rich presents which they had dearly bought His heart encourag'd was in the Lords way High places groves with zeal he took away When he was rich and in honour highly With Ahab he did joine affinitie With him to go to battell he was mov'd For which he was deservedly reprov'd By good Jehu the son of Hanani Who said to him Should'st thou help th' ungodlie VVhat didst thou meane to bee by thought or word In league or love with them that hate the Lord Consider well and now take heed and see For wrath from God is posting upon thee Thee to correct but not thee to confound Because in thee good things the Lord hath found The idole groves thou hast taken away Thy heart thou hast prepar d to seeke alway The mighty Lord in great sincerity Therefore the Lord vvill not depart from thee To the Judges he gave commandement To take good heed because in the judgement The Lord was with them Doe now what yee can Said he to them for yee judge not for man But for the Lord If him ye do rgard He shall not faile you richly to reward Judge uprightly beware of shifts and drifts Respect not persons reject bribs and gifts Which blind the eye but let Gods holy fear Be upon you that so yee may forbeare To doe like these who with Horse leaches sing To their clients these doubled words Bring bring This counsell that the Judges from him gat Was worthy of the name of Joshaphat Which signifies Gods judgement most clearly In my judgement by way of prophesie After this done with zeal behold anone Against Josaphat Moab and Ammon A multitude great from beyond the Sea In Hazazon-Tamar call'd Engedi Conveen'd to fight in a bloody Battell Against Josaphat who to th'Eternell Had his refuge while he was thus agast He sought the Lord and did proclame a fast Then all Judah with one heart did accord From all cities to go and seek the Lord Good Josaphat troubled with fear that day Before Judah thus to the Lord did say Art thou not God in heaven who rulest all Art thou not he who is God eternall Hast thou not strength and great might in thine hand Where are the forces that can thee withstand Art thou not God who didst before Isra'l Drive out thy foes by thine arme eternall And gav'st their lands from a most loving minde Vnto the seed of Abraham thy frind Thou art a Lord both strong and righteous Thou promised vvhen men unto thine house Should come to thee in great trouble and feare That vvith great speede thou vvould them help and heare And novv behold both Moab and Ammon VVith these of Seir minde thy Judah anone For to invade and their lands to make bare Though at thy vvill vve did them save and spare And novv O Lord consider and regard Hovv vvith despight as foes they us revvard Our forces faint Our foes are most mightie But this comforts Our eyes are upon thee Then Judah all with wives and children dear Before the Lord stood in a trembling fear Then on Jahaziel son of Zechariah A divine Sprite came downe from Jehovah Who said All Judah and Josaphat King Hear novv glade tidings vvhich I to you bring From great Jovah vvho said you neede 〈◊〉 feare For I for you shall fight in all this vvarre When King and people had these comforâ— found They bow'd their heads with face unto 〈◊〉 ground The Levites high their singing voice did raise They stood all up the living God to praise They rose up early in the morning light To go to battell in their armour bright Now as they went Josaphat stood and said Heare me O Judah now beleeve in God Beleeue so that no doubt make you once whisper Beleeve his Prophets so shall yee all prosper When this was said the singers with gladnesse Did praise the beautie of his holinesse Then God most mighty in Battell arose Who set ambushments round about his foes He made each one another for to slay The Lord himself the battell fought that day Gods arme it wrought and not fortune or hap â—ot one of all their armie did escape â—fter that God had given them thus the foile â—is people were enricht with their great spoile â—ost rare jewels among the dead that day â—hey found yea more then they could bear away When this was done with Trumpets and with Harps They came to Salem with great joy of hearts And thanked God the great God Eternell Who had strongly their foes foil'd in Battell Thus the realme was quiet without shout Of warre to them God gave rest round about But after this Josaphat did purloine In that he did with Ahaziah joine Who was a King perverse in Israel Even Ahabs Son hated of th' Eternall Who awlesse lawlesse ' gainst the Lord did rage With him he ships made for a long voyage To Tarshish But the Prophet Dodavah Came to Josaphat from the great JOVAH Because said he thou hast fal'n in such slips The LORD himself hath broken all thy ships When he began he was of age thirtie And five thereafter he reigned twentie And five Of all he lived yeeres threescore A Godly Prince who did Gods law restore The Use If Princes would have peace and foile thâ— foes Let them in feare to serve the Lord rejoice If Princes would enjoy prosperitie Let them abhorre all profane companie 5. JEHORAM High LORD HIgh LORD in name but base in cariage For he his brethren all slew in his rage In great mischief and strife he spent his life For he had Ahabs daughter to his wife Then came to him writings from Elijah Who was the Prophet of the great JOVAH Because said he with vile idolatrie Thou hast thy selfe defiled filthilie Because with furie rage and great disdaine Most cruelly thou hast thy brethren slaine Who in Gods wayes had their heart more perfitâ— Then thine therefore with sore plagues I wiâ— smite Both thee and thine A plague without all doubt â—hall from thy belly thy bowels thrust out â—ight yeeres hee did reigne then great plagues conspir'd â—is death he died but was by none desir'd The Use Take heed O Kings make not your men to grone If ye would have men your death to bemone â—hese who in lewdnesse both end and begin â—hall beare the scars of wounds made by their sinne 6. AHAZIAH Possession of God â—LL mothers Sonne son of the wicked
bondage in this uncouth slaverie He was a servant the space of yeeres three But afterward as th' historie doth tell He turned and against him did rebell But for the sins of the Kings of Judah He got no help from the great JEHOVAH For the great sins done by their wicked hands Against Judah the Lord sent troups and bands From Syria from Moab and Ammon And also from the land of Babylon These he did send against Judah to fight For to remove Judah out of his sight For the great sins by King Manasse done The Lord in wrath would not the land pardon Last by Nebuchanezzar he was found Who straitly him in most strong fetters bound To Babylon to carry him that day He thought surely but died by the way Of his great faults we have the historie In twentie two chapter of Jeremie He was a man full of unrighteousnesse His eyes and heart were but for covetousnesse Oppression blood and also violence Did most vilely staine the hands of that Prince Therefore concerning King Jehojakim Thus said the LORD None shall lament for 〈◊〉 This at the last shall surely come to passe He shall with shame be buri'd like an Asse â—e shall be drawne and cast foorth filthily â—eyond the gates of Salem Gods city The Use â—et Kings beere learne for God their life to spend A sinfull life brings to a shamefull end 18 JEHOJACHIN The preparation or strength of GOD. THis wicked man called Jehojachin Follow'd the trace of ill Jehojakim â—is foolish father He had these names three â—ehojachin Jechonias al 's he â—honias was called When he began â—o reigne he was of eighteene yeeres a man In his time Nebuchadnezzar quicklie â—rom Babylon did send a great armie â—erusalem in great furie and rage â—hese men of Babel stoutly did besiege â—t last the King Jehojachin came out â—ith mother servants princes him about â—hus this ill man in th' eight yeere of his reigne Was taken captive by great Babels King Who with his rascals most unrighteous Did carry thence the treasures of GODS house He also rageing in wrongs manifold Cut in pieces the rich vessels of gold Which had beene made by wise King Soâ—â—â—mon In Gods Temple of these he left not one Ten thousand captives from Judah that day With crafts-men smithes he carried all away The poorer sort by his pride and disdaine Were onely suffred at home to remaine Jehojachin with Mother Wives that day And officers were carried all away ' Gainst this ill man the Prophet Jeremie Gods fearfull judgements declared plainly As I live said the Lord though Coniah Son of Jehojakim King of Judah Were neare and deare as signet on the hand Yet would I pluck him thence so that to stand Before my face this vaine and naughty fool Shall not have strength like a broken idol O Earth earth earth give eare and heare 〈◊〉 word For I that speakes am the Almighty Lord Write him chidelesse a man of no vertue This Jechoniah shall not have issue Tâ—is is enacted qy the great Jovah â—e of his feed shall be King in Judah The Use Kâ—ngs follow their wicked fathers trace â—e Lord them shall pluck shortlie from their place â—he King who with Coniah playes the foole 〈◊〉 in Gods eyes like a broken idole 19. MATTANIAH The gift of GOD. He after was by Nebuchanezzar King of Babylon called ZEDEKIAH The righteousnesse of GOD. THis was the third son of good Josiah 〈◊〉 Jehojachins Uncle the great JOVAH â—e did contemne he humbled not his heart â—hen Jeremie from God spake him apart ' Gainst Babels King he falsly did rebell Who made him sweare by the great Eternell Gods word to him gives this reprofe and checâ— His heart he hardned and stiffned his neck Therefore in the ninth yeare of his ill reigne God sent to him the host of Babels King Who ' gainst Salem pitched with courage stout And built strong forts against it round about Two years that seege continued hardly At last famine prevail'd in the city It to defend in it was no more might The men of war from it did flee by night The King himself who stood out long in vaine At last did flee by the way of the plaine Him the Caldees pursu'd with feet of Roe And overtooke him neere to Jericho Him they did bring unto the faire Riblah There they judgement upon Zedekiah Did give yea his sons there before his face These villains slew without mercy or grace When that was done in their most cruell spoâ— That this poore King should have no more coâ—â—fort By sight of eyes they this devise did find To put his eyes out and so make him blind Because against the Lord he did trespasse His foes him bound with strong fetters of brassâ— The ninteenth year of Nebuchanezzar Nebuzaradan his captaine from farre â—me with great forces he with rage and ire â—ds house and the Kings palace burnt with fire â—is Babylonish army strong and stout â—ake downe the walls of Salem round about â—us that city with all that there was found â—ith GODS house al 's was brought unto the ground â—ebuzaradan in Judah left then â—â—ely vine dressers and poor husband men â—e men of might with all their wealth that day â—â—t of their land were carried all away The Use â—hen King or people thus live voide of grace â—he Lord shall them soone remove from their place â—ho want Gods help their foes shall soone them foile â—â—em captives take and their rich treasures spoile â—r Judahs sins the mighty Lord that day â—ng Crowne Scepter and carried all away â—r their trespasse he would not them defend â—â—t of their Kingdome made a tragick end Behold how this people of great renowne Were spoil'd at last of Liberties and Crowne They angred God they did his Prophets scorne Therefore no Jevv did sit on Judahs Throne Let Kings heere learne vvho are set in high place That Kingdomes stand not by mens strength but grace Let Kings heere learne hovv for their sinne anone God brings to nought their Scepter Crovvne and Throne THE GARDEN OF ZION Of the Kings of Israel 1. Jeroboam 2. Nadab 3. Baasha 4. Elah 5. Zimri 6. Omri 7. Ahab 8. Ahaziah 9. Joram 10. Jehu 11. Jehoahaz 12. Jehoash 13. Jeroboam 14. Zechariah last of Ichus race 15 Shallum 16. Menahem 17. Pekajah 18. Pekah 19. Hoshea A Prayer O Well of life novv shovv thy golden source A silver pipe make my heart for its use In holy tearmes make me the praise expresse Which is most due unto thy holinesse I beg thy light and grace for to diserne That teaching others I my self may learne Ecclipse me not like the Coach of the Moone When it is black but turne my night to Noone My brest O Lord vvith sacred verses fill Which I may vvrite vvith a most nimble quil Of Judahs Kings as vve have understood Many vvere bad but fevv alas vvere good But Isra'ls Kings thy vvord them All doth blame Not one of them did truely
riches and in the ground it hid Then each man said This is a day of grace We do not well for this to hold our peace In good tidings If we to morning light â—y some mischiefe will upon us light â—w therefore come that we may go and tell Kings household what the great Eternel â—h done for us Then to the city soone â—y went and told perfectly was done When the King heard this he arose by night â—d said This is but policie and slight â—se men do know that we be much hungry â—refore to draw us from our strong city â—y hide themselves that when we are come out â—ey may surprise and compasse us about Then said one let five horse men goe and view 〈◊〉 see if what the lepers say be true â—ese five men as the King did them allow â—ent on horse back the Syrians to follow â—ey follow'd them unto the faire Jordan â—ong the Syrians there was not a man â—ho had a heart or hand to fight that day â—r hast their clothes and armes they cast away When the Messengers returned and told â—hat God had done by mercies manifold â—e people went and their rich tents did spoile â—us God himself did that day Syria foile Elisha had spoken of cheapnesse â—f flowre and barley so it came to passe But that great Lord who doubted in his hâ— The plentie saw but of it did not taste For while the people went out in a spate To get vivers they trode him in the gate Then said Elisha to the Shunamite Goe from thy place to another more meet For the LORD surely will for whole yeâ— seven Afflict Israel with a sore famine Then she arose at Elishas command And sojourned in the Philistines land At seven yeeres end she returned and said Unto the King Oh pitie thine handmaiâ— My house and land cause novv to mee store Grant mee mine ovvne O King I crave more In this meane time the King with Gehazi Did talke and say Now briefly tell to me What great wonders the mighty LORD JOVâ— Hath wrought by thy good Master Elisha As Gehazi all such things was telling Behold the woman comes before the King Whose Son he had restored unto life Then said Gehazi behold here the wife And this her Son whom by the Lords power Elâ—â—ha did from death to life restore When the King heard the womans petition â—t she might have of all restitution Officer he sent who went therefore â—d unto her her whole rents did restore Then to Damascus came good Elisha â—d Benhadad the King of Syria â—ng then sicke one came to him and told â—od Elisha the man of GOD behold â—hither come Then unto Hazael â—e Syrian King his minde did freely tell 〈◊〉 to the man said he and in thine hand â—ke him a present for so I command â—is also try for so it doth me please I recover shall of this disease Then Hazael with a most rich present â—to Elisha went incontinent â—urty Camels burden Hazael thus â—ought to Elisha from rich Damascus â—ho said Benhadad King of Syria â—th sent Hazael to thee Elisha 〈◊〉 try if now to tell him it the please 〈◊〉 he recover shall of this disease Go said Elisha to Benhadad say â—o recover most certainly thou may â—owbeit the Lord hath clearely shewed me â—hat at this time King Benhadad shall die When this was said he set his countenancâ— On Hazael on him his eyes did glance With piercing looks then in a sorrow deep Good Elisha the man of God did weep Then Hazael said I proy thee me tell Why weeps my Lord Alas for Israel Said Elisha for I now clearely see What great mischief shall to Isra'l by thee Be done their strong holds thou shalt sâ— fire Their young men slay thou shalt in rage ire Their children dash thou shalt al 's their wâ— With child rip up when this was all said 〈◊〉 Hazael said this is a hard saying Am I a dogge that I should do such thing Then to him said the Prophet Elisha GOD saith thou shalt be King of Syria Then he came to Benhadad speedily Who said what said Elisha unto thee He told me said he that thou should'st recovâ— Of this disease so he did not discover What he had heard shortly it came to passe That he a thick cloth spred upon his face So after Benhadad the King was dead His servant Haza'l reigned in his stead After Elisha had anointed King â—u who downe ill Ahabs house did bring â—ehus sons time who call'd was Joash â—ha fell in a deadly sicknesse â—en to Elisha came Joash the King â—o said these words over his face weeping â—y father my father whom Isra'l â—ir strong Charet and Horsemen well did call Then said Elisha take to thee a bow â—d arrowes al 's on shooting to bestow â—en he did as Elisha did command â—ha put his hand upon his hand â—en the window and now shoot a shot â—d Elisha so the King as by lot â—ected well did shoot This sharp arrow â—d Elisha to thee declares that now â—is is the arrow of Gods deliv'rance â—m Syria whereon he shall vengeance â—ke by his might Againe unto the King â—sha had this Prophetick saying â—ke now thine arrowes and smite on the ground â—r in Gods eyes Isra'l hath favour found â—en he smote thrise but afterward did stay â—r this Elisha most wroth said that day five or six times thou hadst well the ground â—itten thou hadst a full victory found â—ainst Syria who do you much despise Whereas thou shalt smite Syria but thrise Then God by death Elisha tooke away And Israel was invaded that day By Moabits they bearing a dead man Afraide by troops to Elishas grave ran And let him downe As soone as he the shee And bones did touch he stood upon his feet The Use Let Prophets learne by Elishas practice Plough and Oxen to quite for GODS serviâ— Who serves the Lord hee great advantâ— hath Advantage both in life and al 's in death Let Prophets learne by Elishas desire A doubled sprit of grace for to require Silver and gold at last men shall disdaine And shall confesse that grace is onely gaine 10. JEHU Subsisting or advanced WHen Elisha an young man did appoint To go with oyle Jehu for to anoint Tâ—e young man went to Ramoth Gilead â—d did all as good Elisha him bade â—hen hee there came the Captaines were sitting â—en he to Jehu addressd this saying To thee O Captaine I have an earand â—hich thee to tell Elisha did command â—en he arose and went into an house â—ith this young man who with oyle precious â—d him anoint subjoining this saying â—ou art by GOD appointed to be King â—e bloody house of Ahab thou shalt smite â—r his great sins of malice and despite â—e blood and whooredome of vile Jezebel â—all be avenged by the Eternell â—r the whole house of Ahab shall perish â—OD shall leave none against the wall to pisse â—is house shall be saith the great
last of all â—y Nehemiah thou made up the wall â—f fair Salem O make us all to feel â—ithin our hearts such burning holy zeal NEHEMIAH The consolation of the Lord. Chap. 1. AS I was in Shushan there came to me One of my brethren called Hanani With certaine men of Judah of whom I â—hat was the state of the poor Jewes did try â—hat had escapt from among dangers great â—nd which of the captivity were left And they againe together said to me â—he remnant left of the captivitie â—e in reproach and great affliction And Salems wall is also broken downe Our foes most fierce who ' gainst us did coâ—spire The gates thereof have all now burnt with firâ— It came to passe when I these words did heâ— From great mourning I could no more forbeaâ— While that my heart greev'd to and fro wâ— driven I did both fast and pray the GOD of Heav'n I said O LORD of Heav'n I beseech thee Great and terrible that keepeth mercie And Covenant for them that do him love And keep the precepts of the Lord above Unto thy servant give attentive eare That thou thy servants prayer well may heare Which before thee I pray both day and night Israels sins confessing in thy sight Not onely so but oh alas both I And al 's my fathers house have sinn'd greatly Against thee wee have most corruptly dealt For which great grief and sorrows we have feâ— Thy statuts and thy most righteous judgementâ— We have not keept which thou by thy servant Moses did give Remember I pray thee What thou in justice and al 's in mercie Spake by Moses saying If yee transgresse I will you scatter but if yee confesse Humblie your sinne and returne timeously â—o me I will you gather most quickly 〈◊〉 our enemies also I will defame â—nd will you bring where I will set my name Now these are thy most faithfull servants and â—eople whom thou by thy Almighty hand â—edeemed hast O LORD my GOD now grant â—n eare attentive unto thy servant â—nd to thy servants prayer now give eare â—ho thy great name alwayes desire to feare â—hat I intend now prosper I thee pray â—hat I may find thine assistance this day 〈◊〉 the sight of this man me mercy grant â—or I cupbearer was the Kings servant Chap. 2. THe twenty year of Artaxerxes King I his cupbearer wine to him did bring 〈◊〉 his presence I had not beene before â—s I was then in great sadnesse wherefore â—he King himself thus looking on me said â—hat aileth thee and why art thou so sad â—eeing with sicknesse thou not troubled art This nothing else is but sorrow of heart When by the King these wordes were to 〈◊〉 said Then I anone was very sore afraid When at this time fear made my lips to quiver Unto the King I said King live for ever Why should I not be sad and all agast When the city of Salem lieth wast The place of my fathers sepulchres deare Its gates are burnt from greefe who can forbeare Then said the King to me See what is best For what dost thou now greeved make request Then lifting up my heart I did soone pray Unto the Lord and to the King did say If it the King please and if thy servant Have in thy sight found favour to me grant That I be sent unto Judahs citie That it anone may builded be by me Then said the King the Queene al 's sitting bâ— For how long shall be this thy great journey And when wilt thou againe to us returne Now set a time it keep and not adjourne When I this heard I set to him a time To let me go the King did well incline Moreover I said to the King humblie If it the King shall please let soone to me Letters be given for them that do govern Beyond the river that they well may learn That thy will is for th' honour of JOVAH â—hat they convey me over to Judah â—lso a letter to get I thought best â—o Asaph the keeper of the forrest â—hat he timber should give for beams quickly â—o make the gates of palace house city â—hat I did seek that did the king command â—ccording as on me was GODS good hand â—hen I beyond the river came quickly â—ving Captaines which the king sent with me When Sanbalat the wicked Horonite â—d Tobiah the servant Ammonite â—eard of it it them greev'd exceedingly â—hat any sought the good of GODS City So GOD who me did save in all my wayes â—ought me to Salem where I was three dayes 〈◊〉 the night tyme when sleep sad on men falls 〈◊〉 went and viewd the ruine of the wals Thereafter I the Jews did all invite 〈◊〉 build the wals and that even in despite 〈◊〉 all their foes Ye know said I what 's past â—rusalem GODS City lyeth waste â—a what our greatest foes did most require â—e wals are down the gates are burnt with fire â—en I to them declared most clearly â—w that the good hand of GOD was on me â—d how the king before I did depart Spake to me words which did comfort my heaâ— Let us rise up and build couragiously So GOD their hearts made stout and hands readâ— But when that Sanballat the Horonite And Tobiah the servant Ammonite And Geshen the Arabian did hear They at our work began to laugh and gyre And us despise what is this great doing Said they Will ye rebell against the king Then unto them I most boldly did say The God of Heaven will prosper us this day Therefore we now his servants will arise And build but you who Gods servants despise In Gods Salem have no memoriall You have no portion yea no right at all Chap. 3. IN this Chapter we have the names of all These who did build fair Salems broken wall Chap. 4. BUT after when that wicked Sanballat Heard that we did so build the wall and thâ— We courage had he wroth with indignation Did scoffe and mock the whole Jewish nation Before his brethren and of Samaria â—e armie he said laughing with Ha ha â—hese feeble Jewes what Will they fortifie â—emselves Or what Will they most foolishly 〈◊〉 sacrifice Will they even in a day â—d all this work Will they revive I say â—e stones out of their bruised rubbish heape â—hich are all burnt Now was the Ammonite â—obiah by him who said scornfully â—l that they build will fall down by and by 〈◊〉 that a Foxe but leap upon their wall â—e shall it break down and make all to fall Heare LORD how wee despised are indeed â—nd their reproach turn upon their own head â—nd make them all at last a prey to be â—en in the land of their captivity â—nd cover not their great sins lesse or more â—r thee to anger the builders before â—ey have provocked so we did anone â—ild all the wall till all was fully done But when Sanballat and Tobiah vain â—ith Ammonits Arabians profane â—nd Ashdodites that Salems wall did hear â—as
painfull hours ESTHER Hid. Chap. 1. IT came to passe that Ahasuerus King When he was in the third yeere of his reign Did make a feast unto all his Princes And his servants Rulers of Provinces There he in pompe and royall dignitie Did shew the honour of his Majestie This feast to shew of his glory the rayes Did last an hundred and al 's fourescore dayes After this feast he to the people all A banket made both unto great and small In Shushan faire which was the Kings palace There many subjects did themselves solace With eating drinking merrinesse and playes This feast did last the whole space of seven dayeâ— Both white and greene and blue hangings we then Fastned most sure with cordes of fine linnen And costly purple to the silver rings Pillars of marble and such other things The beds were of fine silver and of gold Which were most pleasant alwayes to behold â—ichly upon a pavement they stood â—f red blue white and al 's black marble good 〈◊〉 gold vessels they drink unto them gave 〈◊〉 abundance as much as they could crave â—he law of drinking was none did compell â—or so the King had well appointed all â—is Officers who did no more require â—ut that each man dranke after his desire Also Vashti the Queen women did bring â—o feast with her in the house of the King 〈◊〉 the seventh day as Ahasuerus was â—errie with wine even as it came to passe â—hat he ordained without lesse or more â—hat Eunuchs should bring Vashti him before â—ith the crowne royall full of dignitie â—o shew unto the Princes her beautie â—or she was faire But Vashti did refuse â—o come unto the King who wroth did use â—reat rigour for her disobedience â—ecause they thought it drew in consequence â—hese of the Princes who were the most wise â—hought by this deed that women would despise â—heir husbands when of it once they should heare â—nd that the basest would no more forbeare â—herefore of this let there be a decree â—gainst the great pride of the Queen Vashti Seeing she hath contemn'd the royall state Of Ahasuerus let her whole estate Be given unto some other speedily Who shall by all be esteem'd more worthy That all women by her may stand in aw Let this decree be written for a law Which publishâ—d through out the Empire all Shall make wives honour husbands great anâ— small After the Princes had heard this saying They it approv'd so likewise did the King So letters were sent that all men might heare That each man in his owne house rule should beâ— Chap. 2. After these things when Vashti was away The Kings servants at last began to say Let fair young virgins be sought for the King And be committed to â—egaâ—s keeping And let the maid which plâ—aseth the kings eye Be placed Queene in stead of proud Vashti When this was said anone with the saying In every point well pleased was the King Now in Shushan there was a certaine Jew The son of Jaâ—r as the Scriptures shew A Benjamite his name was Moâ—decai He from Salem had been carri'd away â—o Babylon in the captivitie With Jechoniah there captive to be â—his man Hadassa which was good Ester His Uncles daughter brought up and al 's bare â—he whole charges he for her daughter took When she was orphan he her not forsook It came to passe at last when the decree Was heard that Ester was brought to Hegai Who keept the women he anone Esther Most fair in face to others did prefer Ester as yet most wisely did not shew That she by nation was a virgin Jew As she directed was by Mordecai She strave in all things humbly to obey The custome was these maids to purifie The space of twelve months that they thus might bee Well for the King prepar'd as was thought meet With oyle of myrre and other odours sweet But above all the rest Esther got place For in the Kings sight she obtained grace So that he set the Crowne upon her head For Vashti he did make her Queene indeed Then the King made a feast to his Princes And a release al 's to the Provinces And royally gave gifts of every thing According to the great State of the King In this meane time the worthy Mordecai Sate in the Kings gate waiting every day Esther had not yet shewed her kinred Nor her people as Mordecai indeed Had charg'd for she respected Mordecai As a daughter she him still did obey While Mordecai thus sate in the Kings gate Two chamberlens men given unto debate Bigthan Teresh of these that kept the door Who did intend to take the King therefore Mordecai knowing what by them had beene Plotted against the King soon told the Queen And Esther wise did then declare the same Unto the King in good Mordecais name When inquisition was made speedily It was so and they hang'd were on a tree And in the book of Chronicles this thing All this was written even before the King Chap. 3. AFter these things the King of Persia Did raise Haman son of Amedatha The Agagite and him advanced high Above all the Princes that were him with â—ll the Kings servants not to give offencé â—id bow to him and give him reverence â—ut Mordecai who did him not allow â—efused alwayes unto him to bow â—or this Haman incensde with great fury â—tended to destroy most speedily â—oth Mordecai and all his nation â—ecause he made not due submission In the first moneth the moneth Nisan 〈◊〉 the Kings twelfth year before proud Haman â—hey cast Pur that is lot from day to day â—ow that they might the Jews all sweep away Then Haman said to Ahasuerus King â—ake heed and hearken unto my saying â—eer is a people that stands not in aw â—roud and perverse who keepe not the Kings law â—herefore it hurts the profite of the King â—hat they within thy bounds have abiding 〈◊〉 it shall please the King them to destroy 〈◊〉 will ten thousand talents surely pay â—f good silver and give it speedily â—o these that have charge of the treasury Then thus perswaded Ahasuerus King 〈◊〉 continent took from his hand his ring â—nd said to him Take these folk speedily â—nd do with them as seemeth good to thee Then letters from the King anone were sent To all Provinces for the same intent That all the Jews without faile in one day Should from the earth like doung be sweept awâ— The posts went out and runnig made great hast To execut what Haman had purchast The King and Haman then drank merrilie But poor Shushan was in perplexitie Chap. 4. WHen what was done was seene by Mordecâ— He rent his cloaths and bitterly did cry He put on sack-loth with ashes and went And to the Kings gate came incontinent In every province then was great mourning Among the Jews with wailing and fasting Yea thus perplexed many night and day In vilest sack-cloth and in ashes lay When Esthers maids thus Mordecai had
seen Clothed with sack they told it to the Queene Who greeved much unto Mordecai sent To change his sackcloth with costly raiment But he the same from their hands would noâ— take Then Esther wondring why he thus did make So strange with her she for Hatah did call â—hat he should know what was it great or small â—hat greeved had the heart of Mordecai 〈◊〉 that he did weare sackcloath day by day So Hatah went to him unto the street â—f the citie even before the Kings gate â—nd Mordecai him told with great annoy â—hat Haman minded the Jews to destroy â—e gave him al 's the copie of writing â—f the decree seal'd by the Kings owne ring â—hat he unto Esther might shew the same â—hat she might know what evil her foes did frame â—nd that she should go quickly to the King â—o make request for to prevent this thing 〈◊〉 Hatah came with diligence that day â—nd told Esther the words of Mordecai Then Esther sent Hatach to him againe â—o speake these words she wise did him ordaine â—he Kings servants and people all doe know â—hat the Kings Lawes most strict doe not allow â—hat to the inner court come great or small â—t such as those for whom the King shall call â—othing but death for him who is so bold As to approach except the King out hold His golden scepter thereby to give leave To come to him none but such after live But I have not beene call'd unto the King These thirty dayes tell Mordecai this thing And they againe did tell to Mordecai The words which Esther unto them did say Then Mordecai commanded this answere Quickly for to be given to Queene Esther Think not with thy self I tell thee for newâ— That thou escape shalt more then other Jeâ— For if at this time thou dost hold thy peace Enlargement shall come from another plâ— Vnto the Jewes but thou most certainly With thy fathers house shalt destroyed be Who knowes but thou by providence divine Art to the Kingdome come for such time When this was told then bade the gâ— Esther To Mordecai soone returne this answere Goe quickly and well gather every man Among the Jewes present within Shushan And fast yee for me the space of three day I also and my maids will fast likewise And so to goe I will not stand in aw Vnto the King though not after the Law To get good speed now from my heart I wish But if I perish then let me perish So what Esther commanded Mordecai Resolved well to do it by and by Chap. 5. IT came to passe after on the third day That Esther richly cloath'd without delay In th'inner court of the Kings house then stood When Ahasuerus King this understood To shew both his favour and her surety His golden Scepter he held out quickly So Esther drew neere and with diligence Touch'd the top of the Scepter of the Prince What wilt thou Queene Esther then said the King What is thy request now in any thing It shall be given to ask now boldly come I will it give though halfe of the Kingdome Then Esther said If it shall please the King I onely seeke ye grant me this saying Let the King and Haman together come To the banket I have prepar'd for him Then the King said at the banket of wine Unto Ester what is that sute of thine And thy request unto me boldly come I will it give though half of the Kingdome Then said Esther This onely sute I bring If I have found in the sight of the King Favour let the King and Haman quickly Come to my feast which shall prepared be Then the morrow as the King shall thinke best I shall plainely shew what is my request Then went Haman foorth from the King thâ— day Joyfull and glad but when he Mordecai Saw in the Kings gate that he up not stood With indignation kindled was his blood Neverthelesse proud Haman did refraine Himself untill he returned againe Unto his house where he incontinent For his wife Zeresh and for his friends sent And Haman told them of the great glory Of his riches and children which many In number were he told al 's every thing Wherein he had been honour'd by the King Who had in signe and token of his love Promoted him the Princes all above Yea moreover said he the Queene Esther Made a great feast whereat none at all were Except the King and I and to be plaine To morrow invited I am againe Yet all this glory availes me nothing As long as I see Mordecai sitting At the Kings gate Then said Zeresh his wife And all his friends we shall soone end this strife Let a gallous of fifty cubits hie For Mordecai right soone prepared be Speake to the King to morrow and anone Let Mordecai be hanged thereupon Then merrily go to the feast this said Well pleasd Haman and he a gallous made Chap. 6. ON that same night Ahasuerus the King Could not get sleep he caused to him bring The Chronicles that they the same might read Before the King thereto he took good heed There it was found written that Mordecai Had told how two vile traitours did betray The King Bigthana and Teresh they were Two Chamberlens the keepers of the doore Who sought on Ahasuerus for to lay Their hands this was reveal'd by Mordecay What honours for this got he said the King â—he servants said For him is done nothing In this meane time Haman without delay Was come to Court to cause hang Mordecai Then said the Kings servants unto the King That Haman stood in the court in him bring Said Ahasuerus who to Haman said What gifts shall be given or what honours laid Upon the man on whom the Kings delight Is to bestow honour with all his might Now proud Haman thought in his lofty heart That to him the King would this all impart Thus he answ'red let the apparell deare Which Ahasuerus useth for to weare Be brought with horse on which he King doth ride Let al 's the Crowne be set upon his head And thus in pompe let him even by the hand Of some great Prince be cloath'd then let command Be given that he most humbly with all speed Bring him on horseback and through the street lead And then proclame the rider there before Thus shall it be done without lesse or more Unto the man whom the Kings Majestie Delights to honour with great dignitie Then said the King unto Haman Make haste Now take my horse and my apparell best â—s thou hast said And do to Mordecai â—et nothing faile do all without delay Then Haman took th' apparell and the horse â—aving within his heart greef and remorse â—s the King had ordain'd without delay Haman did each thing unto Mordecay â—efore whose face he did proclaime this thing This is the man in whom our Prince and King Hath his delight and bids tell at this houre That his delight is this man to honour Then Mordecai
brothers hall 19 But O behold what did befall a most fearfull distresse There came a strong and mighty winde even from the wildernesse The house four corners it did smite which on the young men fell They are all dead and I alone escaped am to tell 20 The Job arose his mantle he rent and did shave his head He down upon the ground did fall and worship did with speed 21 Then said he in his grief and smart Out of my mothers womb I naked came and shall return al 's naked to my tomb The LORD hath given and al 's the LORD hath taken all away The LORDS great name be blessed still for ever and for ay â—2 Yet worthy JOB most patient in all this misery â—id not offend nor charge his GOD with rigour foolishly Chap. 2. ANother day the sons of GOD came themselves to present Before the LORD Satan also among them there he went 2 Whence comes thou GOD to Satan said then Satan answred soon From going to and fro on Earth from walking up and down 3 Hast thou considred JOB said GOD that there is none him like One that feares GOD and evil eschewes perfect and upright eke Behold how still he holdeth fast even his integrity Although that him for to destroy thou without cause mov'dst me 4 Then Satan the LORD answerd soone JOB hath felt little strife But skin for skin all that man hath will he give for his life 5 Put foorth thine hand his bone and flesh touch and in little space He even out of all patience will curse thee to thy face 6 And the Lord unto Satan said Behold and now perceive He in thine hand given over is but see thou his life save 7 So from the presence of the Lord Satan went up and downe And smot poore Job with painefull boiles from the sole to the crowne 8 Then a potsheard to scrape himself he tooke all desolate Thus he perplexed in his mind among the ashes sate 9 Then said his wife Retain'st thou still thine old integritie What meanest thou O foolish man now curse thou GOD and die 10 But he againe said unto her his witlesse wife to schoole Thou speakest now thou knowes not what thou speakest like a foole Shall we receive good and not evill at the hand of the LORD â—n all this did not holy Job with lips sinne in a word 11 Now when Jobs three friends heard of all this evill and great disgrace That came on him they every one did come from his owne place The Temanite Eliphaz and al 's Bildad the Shuhite And Zâ—phar also joyn'd with them the wise Naamathite For they together had all made appointment of one sort To come and mourne with their deare freind and him for to comfort 12 But when they did lift up their eyes afarre they him no more Did know they lifted up their voice and weeped very sore And every man his mantle rent while thus they had it riven They sprinkled dust upon their heads toward the highest heaven 13 So seven dayes without speaking wordes and seven nights they down sate Upon the ground for they did see his grief was very great Chap. 3. THen op'ned Job his mouth anone and in greefe cursd his day And answ'ring with a wounded heart Job thus began to say 3 Cursd be the day that I was borne and let the night like have That it was said my mother did me a man childe conceive 4 Let that day be darknesse alwayes let not GODS eye divine Regard it neither let the light upon it ever shine 5 Let darknesse it and shadowes staine let a cloud stedfastly Dwell on it let the blacknesse of the day it terrifie 6 Let darknesse seaze upon that night to the dayes of the yeare Let it not come nor numbred be with moneths by men heere 7 Let that night in all times to come be solitarie still Let no voice at all come therein that is glade or joyfull 8 Let them it curse with all their heart that use to curse the day â—ho are still ready to raise up their great mourning alway 9 Let the starres of its twilight be darke let it looke for light â—ut have none neither let it see the faire dayes dawning bright 10 Because it of my mothers womb shut not the doores closely Nor in the dayes of troubles great hide sorrow from mine eye 11 Why died I not even from the womb which compassd me about Why did not I give up the ghost when from it I came out 12 Why did the midwives gentle knees me at my birth prevent Or why the breasts that I should suck gave milk for this intent 13 For now both still and quiet I should have been for my best I should have sleeped in the grave then had I been at rest 14 With Kings and also counsellers men of the earth most rare Who in places most desolate did build their houses faire 15 Or with Princes who glistring gold had in their treasures still Who their houses adorned well with silver fine did fill 16 Or as an hid untymly birth I surely had not beene As infants in their mothers wombe which light have never seene 17 There cease alwayes the wicked men From troubling the opprest And there from toile and carking care the weary be at rest 12 The prisoners there together rest they not at any houre Do heare the voice which doth proceed from the great opressour 18 These that be small and also gerat even there together be And the servant for toilsome taske is from his master free 20 Wherefore is light given unto him that is in miserie And life upon the earth to them that in soul bitter be 21 Which every day do long for death but it comes not therefore â—nd dig for it even more then for hid treasures and great store 22 Which doe exceedingly rejoice and alwayes gladnesse have â—n their greatest afflictions when they can find the grave 23 And why is light given to a man whose way is alwayes hid â—nd whom the Lord hath hedged in and from evill will not red 24 For my sighing before I eat doth come and me about â—y roarings loud like waters great are largely powred out 25 For that which I still greatly fear'd is come now upon me â—nd that whereof I was afraid is to me come surelie 26 In safety I was not alwayes nor yet still had I rest 〈◊〉 was far from all quietnesse yet troubles me opprest Chap. 4. WHen this was said then Eliphaz the Temanite that day Did forme an answer and to Job after this speach did say If we assay to speake with thee as friends and so be bold Will thou be greev'd But who from words can well himselfe withhold 3 Behold thou hast instructed well diverse in numbrous bands And thou by thy most wise comforts hast strengthned the weak hands 4 Thy words have well upholden him that was in miseries Straight falling and thou strengthned hast the weak and feeble
passe ov'r his glory is alway 12 As roaring of a Lion fierce so a Kings wrath doth passe But his favour most gracious is as dew upon the grasse 13 To his father a foolish son is great calamity And the contentions of a wife do drop continually 14 House richesse are th' inheritance which fathers do afford But he that hath a prudent wife her hath even from the LORD 15 Men into slumber and deep sleep are cast by slouthfulnesse A soul that 's idle suffer shall both hunger and distresse 16 He that keeps the commandment well his own soul keeps safely But he that doth despise his wayes undoubtedly shall dy 17 He that hath pitie on the poor unto the Lord doth lend â—nd that which he hath given will he in payment to him send 8 While there is any hope thy son ev'n chasten by and by â—et not thy soul him spare at all though he aloud do cry 9 A man of great wrath punishment shall suffer and sustaine â—or if thou him deliver yet thou must doe it againe 10 Hear wise counsell and also good instruction soone receive â—hat so thou in thy latter end may'st alwayes wisdome have 11 In a mans heart that is profound devices many be â—everthelesse the counsell of the Lord shall stand most free 12 Of a man worthy the desire his kindnesse is most sure â—â—d better then a lyar is a man though he be poore The fear of the Almighty LORD to life doth alwayes tend â—e that it hath is satisfi'd no ill shall him offend 24 In his bosome a slouthfull man doth hide his hand in vaine And will not so much as it bring unto his mouth againe 25 A scorner smite and simple men will sure beware therefore Also reprove the wise and he will be wise more and more 26 He that doth wast his father and his mother chase away Is a vile son that causeth shame and brings reproach alway 27 My son I counsell thee to cease th' instruction for to hear That causeth men alwayes to erre from wordes of knowledge dear 28 A wicked witnesse judgement all doth scorne both lesse and more And the mouth of the wicked doth iniquity devore 29 Judgements severe for scorners are prepared by Gods hand And sore stripes for the back of fooles that nothing understand Chap. 20. WIne is a mocker and strong drink is raging great alwayes â—nd whosoever is thereby deceived is not wise As roaring of a Lion so is of a King the fear Who him provokes to wrath doth sin ' gainst his own soul most dear It for a man an honour is to cease from strife quickly â—ut every foole of knowledge void therewith will medling be The sluggard will not plow because of cold showres that down fall â—herefore in harv'st time shall he beg and have nothing at all Counsell is in the heart of man like waters deep surelie â—ut one of understanding good will draw it out quickly Of men the most part will proclaime each one his own goodnesse â—ut who can by his wisdome finde â— a man of faithfulnesse 7 The man that is just wisely walks in his integrity His children deare are after him a blest posterity 8 A King that sitteth in the throne of judgement just alway With his owne eyes all wickednesse doth scatter cleane away 9 Who can in truth affirme and say my heart I have made sure Cleane from all sort of wickednesse I from my sin am pure 10 Weights diverse and such measure al 's though they much gaine afford They both abomination are alike unto the Lord. 11 Even a young child is knowne by that which he doth in mens sight Whether his work be good and pure and whether it be right 12 The eare that is inclin'd to heare and al 's the seeing eye The Lord hath even made both of them by his hand for to be 13 Love not long sleep lest that thou come to poverty with speed Thine eyes open and thou shalt be well satisfied with bread 14 The merchand saith it 's nought it's nought when he desires to buy But when from thence he is away he boasteth by and by 15 Of Gold and Rubies men esteeme but the lips that can say The words of wisdome are indeed a jewell rare alway 16 His garment take that surety is even for a strangers sake And of him for a woman strange see that a pledge thou take 17 Bread that is gotten be deceit unto a man seemes sweet But afterwards his mouth shall be with gravell fil'd for meat 18 Each purpose well establish'd is by counsell good and wise And when thou mindest to make war do it with good advice 19 Who bearing false tales goth about mens secrets with great slips Revealeth therefore haunt him not that flattreth with his lips 20 Who so his father curseth or his mother dear most sure His lamp shall be put out anone in darknesse most abscure 21 An heritage may at the first be gotten hastilie But out of doubt the end thereof shall no way blessed be 22 Say not when thou provoked art ill recompence I will But waite on God and he shall sure thee save from danger still 23 Weights diverse are unto the Lord abomination all And a false ballance is not good with either great or small 24 Mans goings all are of the Lord who ordreth them alway How can a man then understand to walk in the good way 25 It is a snare to him that doth the holy things devore And after his vowes for to make enquirie strick therefore 26 A King that cunning is and wise can ill men scatter well â—nd for a just judgement also bring over them the wheele 27 The sprit of man Gods candle is which shineth in our hearts 〈◊〉 of the belly searcheth still ev'n all the inward parts 28 Mercy and truth most safely do preserve the King alone â—y mercy to his subjects all upholden is his Throne 29 Of young strong men the glory great is their great strength indeed â—nd of old men the beautie is the gray and hoary head 30 The bluenesse of a wound surely the ill doth cleanse away 〈◊〉 of the belly th' inward parts stripes still do purg alway Chap. 21. THe Kings heart in the hand of GOD is as a river still â—le doth it turne by his great might whethersoever he will The way or work of every man in his owne eyes is right But the LORD pondreth well the hearts by his wisdome and might 3 To do judgement with upright heart and al 's to do justice Is more acceptable unto the LORD then sacrifice 4 A haughty look disdaining men a proud and lofty heart And plowing of the wicked men is sin in every part 5 All the thoughts of the diligent tend unto plenteousnesse But every one that hastie is to want and to distresse 6 The getting of great treasures by great lyes a vanitie Is tossed to and fro of them that seeke death foolishly 7 The robbery
hath Who in his fists the winde makes to remaine Who waters in a garment hath bound fast for to endure Who all the ends hath of the earth established most sure What is the name of such a man whereby thou dost him call And what is his sons name also if thou canst clearly tell 5 Ev'ry good word that doth proceed from God is cleane and pure He unto them that trust in him a shield is firme and sure 6 See that thou adde not to his words lest that he thee reprove And thou be found one who is set most wicked lies to love 7 Two things have I with all mine heart required Lord of thee Denie me them not I thee pray before the time I die 8 Take vanitie from me and lies give me not povertie Nor richesse feed me with the food convenient for me 9 Lest I full thee deny and say Who is God in disdaine Or lest I be poore and so steele and take GODS name in vaine 10 Unto his master a servant accuse not least he thee Curse bitterly and thou at last be guilty found to be 11 There is a generation that their father dear do curse And being fill'd with wickednesse there mother do not blesse 12 There is a generation al 's that in their eyes are pure And yet their filthinesse not wash'd doth still in them indure 13 There is a generation al 's how lofty are their eyes And their eye-lids are lifted up through their great pride and ease 14 There is a generation al 's whose teeth are as a sword And their jaw teeth as knives most sharp oppressours in a word 15 The base horseleach hath daughters two which give give still do cry Three things they are yea foure which yeâ— can never satisfie 16 The grave also the barren womb the earth that is not full Of water and the fire that doth cry for more fewell still 17 The eye that mocks his father and refuseth to obey His mother Ravens and Eagles it shall picke out for a prey 18 There be three things indeed which are too wonderfull for me Yea there be foure which I my self know not with certaintie 19 The markes that in the way appear of Eagles in the aire The serpents way when it upon a hard rock doth repaire The way al 's of a sailing ship in the midst of the sea A harlots way to spoile a maide of her virginitie 20 Such is the way of her that is a vile adulteresse She eats and wips her mouth saying I do not wickednesse 21 For three things is disquieted the earth both far and neere Yea and for foure which it can not be able for to bear 22 For a servant when he doth reigne and troad men under feet And al 's a fool when he is fill'd with good and dainty meat 23 For a woman that 's odious a poor husbands distresse And likewise an hand maid that is heire to her owne mistresse 24 There be foure things upon the earth which are of little price But by the great Gods providence they are exceeding wise 25 The Ants a people are not strong which in the earth repaire Their meat they in the summer time with diligence prepare 26 The little conies in the fields are but a feeble folk Yet they most cunningly do make their houses in the rock 27 The locusts in their armies all have no King that commands Yet go they foorth in order good even all of them by bands 28 The spider with her crooked hands doth heere and there take hold And to abide in palaces of great Kings she is bold 29 There be three things upon the earth which go right orderly Yea there are foure in number which in going are comely 30 A Lion which among all beasts is strongest for a prey â—nd for all these that him gainstand doth not turne once away 31 A gray hound with great speed and al 's a hee-goat and a King â—gainst whom by the force of men there is no uprising 32 If thou in lifting up thy self hast done things foolishly â—f thou hast thought ill lay thine hand upon thy mouth quickly 33 As churning of milk butter brings and wringing of the nose Brings blood the forcing so of wrath brings forth both strife and noise Chap. 31. THe words of good king Lemuel all the worthy prophecie That his dear mother did him teach that he might prudent be 2 What my deare sonne And what the son which I with paine did beare Into my wombe And what the son of all my vowes most deare 3 To woman vaine give not thy strength which shall thee much annoy Nor yet thy wayes to that which doth the mighty Kings destroy 4 O Lemuel it is not for Kings as thou may wisely think Nor yet for Princes foolishly strong wine to bibe and drink 5 Lest that they drink and then the law forget and al 's pervert The judgement of these men that are afflicted sore in heart 6 Give thou strong drink unto him that is in great greef and smart And also wine unto all these that be of heavy heart 7 Let him drink well and then forget his poverty therefore And so remember in his mirth his poverty no more 8 Thy mouth still open for the dumb even whether neer or far Ev'n in the cause of such that to destruction ordain'd are 9 Thy mouth with wisedome open well and judge thou righteously The cause of needy men and poor plead thou most faithfully 10 Who on earth can a woman find both vertuous good and wise â—he richest Rubies all above is her excellent price 11 Of her husband the heart in her doth trust without all toile â—o that he furnish'd well in all shall have no need of spoile 12 She loving him most heartily and fleeing from all strife â—ill do him good still and not ill ev'n during all her life 13 She seeketh wooll and also flax and that most carefully â—nd early with her hands and late she worketh willingly 14 She like the ships of merchands is which still procure much good â—e well directed from a far brings safely home her food 15 She riseth al 's while it is night and wisely giveth meat To her houshold a portion al 's for all her maids to eat 16 A field she doth consider and it buyes for fear of want With the fruit of her hands she al 's a vineyeard well doth plant 17 Her loines she girdeth well with strength her self for to addresse Unto her task she maketh strong her armes for businesse 18 She doth perceive her merchandise to be good in mens sight Her candle burning her before doth not go out by night 19 Her hands unto the spindle she most carefully doth lay Her hands also the distafe hold and so doth passe the day 20 Her hand unto these that be poor she stretcheth out richlie Yea more she reacheth foorth her hands to these that needie be 21 For her houshold she of the snow is not afraid
instructed be I gladly would thee cause to drink of my well spiced wine And of the fair Pomegranates juice which pleasant is and fine 3 Under my head in lovely wayes his left hand laid should be And his right hand most tenderly likewise embrace should me 4 O daughters of Jerusalem I charge you that ye cease To stir up or awake my Love and that untill he please CHRIST Who is this from the wildernesse that comes up by and by And thus on her Beloved doth ev'n leaning still rely It is my Church I thee did raise up from the Apple tree Thy mother there thee did bring foorth she brought foorth that bare thee The beleeving Jewes Me as a seale set on thy heart and on thine arme set me â—or love as death and as the grave most strong is jealousie â—ven burning coales of hotest fire are the coales of the same Which kindled have a vehement and a most piercing flame True love can not be quench'd at all by waters flowing downe â—or yet can floods of troubles great by any force it drowne â—f any largely of his house would give the substance all â—t utterly contemned should be both by great and small We have a little sister which no breasts hath lesse or more What shall we do even in the day she shall be spoken for CHRIST If she continue firme and fast like to a mighty wall A silver Palace build on her we altogether shall And if she be even as a door to give eare to my words We will most safely her inclose with finest Cedar boards The beleeving Jewes 10 I am a wall my breasts also like towers are on the ground Then was I in his eyes as one that had his favour found CHRIST 11 At Baal-Hamon a vineyard king Solomon had set The vineyard unto keepers he for profite then had let Each one of these his servants for the sweet fruit of the vine A thousand pieces was to bring of silver good and fine 12 My vineyards fruits are all for me but thou O Solomon Must have a thousand and the rest the farmers live upon 13 Thou that in Gardens dwellest faire and livest in Gods feare â—ompanions hearken to thy voice cause me it al 's to heare The Church â—ake haste my Welbelov'd and be thou like unto a Roe 〈◊〉 to young Harts that on the mounts of spices quickly go THE SONG OF MOSES AT THE RED SEA After GOD had drowned Pharao and his whole hoast EXOD. 15. vers 1. Will now sing unto the LORD for he hath gloriously Triumph'd he horse and rider al 's hath throwen into the Sea The LORD he is my strength and song and my salvation sure An habitation I for him most gladly will prepare My fathers GOD he still hath been and that in every part I him therefore will now exalt and that with all my heart 3 The Lord who hath a mighty arme is as a man of war The Lord most surely is his name well known both neer and far 4 He Pharos charets and his hoast hath cast into the Sea In the red Sea even drowned all his chosen Captaines be 5 With frothy deepths GOD cov'red them this work he did alone Into the bottome they did sink even as a heavy stone 6 Thy right hand is become O LORD most glorious in great power Thine arme and thy right hand thy foes have dasht even all to powder 7 Thou hast thy foes all overthrown in great excellencie Thy wrath thou sent'st foorth which consum'â— them as the stubble dry 8 And with the blast of thy nostrils the waters gath'red there â—he floods stood upright as an heap the deepths congealed were Th enemy said I will pursue them will I overtake will divide the spoile my lust upon them will I wreak In my wrath most fierce will draw my sword them to annoy â—y mightie hand with fearfull plagues shall surely them destroy 11 Thou didst blow with thy boistrous wind the sea them covr'd indeed â—hey in the mighty waters all sank downe as heavy lead 12 Who 's like thee LORD among the gods who 's glorious like to thee â— holinesse and fearefull praise and wonders done by thee 13 Thou in thy fierce wrath stretchedst out thy right hand with great strength â—he earth opning her mouth did then all swallow up at length Thou in thy mercy hast led foorth thy people bought by thee Thou in thy strength them to thy house hast guided lovingly 14 The people all shall heare of this and they shall be afraid The indwellers of Palestine with grief shall be dismaide 15 The Duks of Edom all amaz'd with Moab tremble shall The indwellers of Canaan shall melt away and fall 16 By thy great Army feare and dread shall heavy on them fall They as a stone still shall be till thy people passe ov'r all O LORD till that thy people all passe ov'r with courage fine Which thou by thine Almighty hand hast purcha'd to be thine 17 Thou strong shalt bring them in and them plant in thy holy place Ev'n in thy pleasant Sanctuary establish'd by thy grace 18 The LORD shall reigne for evermore most like a mighty King 19 For he on Pharo and his house the lofty waves did bring But the children of Israel all who did the LORDS command They in the mids of all the sea went safely on dry land Miriams Song at the red Sea THen Miriam the Prophetesse the sister of A'ron Did daunce with women thankfully and Timbrels plaid upon And Miriam thus answer'd them 〈◊〉 praise GOD for now hath he â—riumph'd He horse and rider al 's hath throwne into the Sea The Song of Moses a little before his death DEUT. 32. vers 1. THE PREFACE O Pleasant heavens that are above with diligence give ear And I will speak O earth below the wordes of my mouth hear 2 My doctrine shall drop as the raine my speach as dew shall passe As small raine on the tender herb and showres upon the grasse 3 Because I surely publish will the blest name of the LORD Yee greatnesse to our GOD therefore ascribe with one accord The first Part. 4 He is the rock his work 's perfite his wayes all judgement be A God of Truth and without sin most just and right is He. 5 They have corrupt themselves their spot is not the spot alwayes Of his children they are perverse a race of crooked wayes 6 Unwise people do ye requite the Lord thus Is not He Thy Father buyer Hath he not made and establish'd thee 7 Remember ye the dayes of old yeeres past consider well Thy Father aske he will thee shew thy Elders will thee tell 8 When the most High to nations did th' inheritance divide When he the sons of Adam all did separate beside He by his wisdome set the bounds of all the people then According to the number of his Israels children 9 For the Lord for his portion hath his people without blot Jacob is his inheritance
Eternall From GLASGOW the 28 of MAY 1644. Your humble servant Mr. ZACHARY BOYD PRAYERS TO GOD FOR HIS ASSISTANCE IN THIS WORK 1. AT Thee JOVAH this work I will begin Inspire mine heart and also guide my pen Teach me to teach and to publish the story Of thy most great workes to thy praise and glory â—ouchsafe on me in thy mercy a look â—hat with thy praise I may embosse my book â—y heart anone shall godly matter frame 〈◊〉 thou shalt glade it with thy glowing flame 〈◊〉 shine on me with thy bright countenance â—nd make thy beams through my bowels to glance 〈◊〉 let not from me thy good sprit depart â—hat with thy Saints I here may act my part 2. O Mighty GOD who all things underprops Refresh mine heart with thy cleare silver drops â—ke Zion hill in a faire May morning â—angled with dew that I thy praise may sing 〈◊〉 purge my soul my drossie sprits refine â—ne empty breast fill with thy breath divine â—onceive in me and after bring to birth â—erses most sweet which I may warble forth â—ouble thy sprit on me LORD I thee call â—â—jah like let mercies mantle fall â—y verse begot in paine and borne in pleasure â—â—t them containe of thy praises a Treasure Grant unto me that in my sacred layes I may expresse the glory of thy wayes O blessed Lord who hearts and reines dost try Make thou my thoughts to soare and cut the sky My musick meene accept and with a look Of mine incense receive this little smooke The widowes mites get thy more large report Then Hecatombes of the richest sort O Lord of love my soul with mercy fraught And take in good part this poore Char-coale draugâ— All foggie mists and sable clouds expell That I thy praise unto the world may tell Reveale to me Salvations sacred things Seal'd in the Casket of the King of kings O Jesus Christ be thou my sure refuge Who bare the doome of that Italian Judge 3. O gracious God now teach me to compile An usefull work with grace now steel my stile That whosoever reads this book he may Reape profite I comfort thou praise for ay The use of this Booke COnsider this who dost these verses read Heer is a Garden both with flowre and weed The pleasant Rose heâ—re smelleth fragrantly The stinking Hemlock thou may also see Heere learne with godly godly be in life Ahorre all these who have beene men of strife Example good follow but shun abuse By Gods wisedome of all these men make use THE GARDEN OF ZION ADAM Earth THis is the man who after sea and land Was made of Earth by great JEHOVAHS hand In his nostrils He breath'd the breath of life And of a rib Hee form'd for him a wife â—ithin this clay immortall life He placed â—f he by sin had not himself disgraced By divine favour He gave him a pledge True holinesse which was His own image He in great love did choose him as His heir And made him of so foule a masse so fair His great VICE-ROY yea His beloved Son Perfect and peerlesse even a Paragon But Oh alas he did not so abide But lost this image by his foolish pride And unbelief whereon as on a rock He made shipwrack a senselesse sottish block That learned Tree the Tree of good and ill Abusde by man did mankinde spoile and spill When he was well content he could not sit But lost us all by a forbidden bit The lofty wife and the crafty Serpent For Adams fall were Satans instrument The sprite apostat residing within That speckled beast with smooth damask skin The simple sexe deceived craftily Assuring her with GOD equall to be Poor Adam chiefly by her lost his life Who was his Phoenix Sister Daughter Wife The earth therefore for pleasant fruits and corneâ— Brought nothing foorth but nettles thistles thorne When man did look of fruits to get a feast The briers and burs did bristle up their breast The LORD on man no meat then would allow Till first the sweat should bubble on his brow He who before was holy meek and wise A fool by sin was thrust from paradise A glorious Park wherein without all tearm He might have dwelt if he had pay'd his Farm But now disgrac'd for disobedience To dwell in Eden he hath not licence The tree of life to him may not affoord Her fruit A Cherub boasts him with a sword Nine hundred and al 's thirty years he lived â—mmortall first at last for sin he died Thus he whom satan by sin did deceive A slimy Burgar was laid in his grave The Use When thou hast sinn'd beware thy selfe to hide â—n Adams fall behold the fruits of pride Of strong made weak of wise become a foole Gods character cancell'd with griefe and doole Great sweat of browes no rest untill our bones â—e cooped up in a cold heap of stones â—h that our sense as the spiders could be Which starts as soone as stirres the buzzing flie Within her web Oh that we could begin â—o feele to hate the least approach of sin EVAH Living ISHAH of man was after call'd EVAH From life by ADAM direct'd by JOVAH She of a rib was made the first woman Who by her pride brought many woes to man Mans other self his love his help his wife With the serpent was cause of all the strife For such a fault her poor condition Was paine in birth and great subjection But heere her comfort in her greatest need The womans seede shall bruise the serpents head The Son of Marie Jesus Christ our Lord 'Twixt God and man shall make a blest accorâ— The Use Let EVAHS fall vaine vvomen terrifie And teach them all to love humilitie Blest be her seede vvho us restor'd againe And of our sins unreel'd the snarled skain CAIN Possession FIrst borne of man name from possession A sacrificer by profession â—hy browe did fall with an envious eye â—ecause the Lord prefer'd Abel to thee â—hou of Abel a bloody murderer â—ecamst who should have beene his best keeper â—ecause his blood doth cry aloud to me â—hou on the earth a vagabound shall be The Use â—y Cains madnesse thou may clearely try What monsters lurke in the sinne of envy â—inne soone is done but after comes the smart 〈◊〉 vagabound all trembling at the heart â—en sinne in secret but God keeps account 〈◊〉 his exchequer how their sinnes do mount ABEL Vanitie THou second Sonne thy name is vanitie Thy Hebrew name did so foretell to thee â—hy cruel brother through envy and strife 〈◊〉 thy faire youth bereft thee of thy life â—ods holy worship thou didst not neglect 〈◊〉 thy service JEHOVAH had respect â—hough in thy youth of death thou trod the path â—â—t still thou lives renowned for thy faith The Use It is no wonder by envie and wrath To see just men unjustly put to death Most blest is he whose heart base slimy he Surmounting towards his creature leaps Strive vvith Abel to dwell
bread and wine And blest him after he had given that feast For Salems King he was and the Lords Priest Unto him ABRAM in that blessed day With chearefull heart the tithes of all did pay But as for spoile nothing I will he said â—est SODOME say I ABRAM rich have made The Battel of Abraham against Amraphel King of Shinar Arioch King of Nations wherein he rescued his brother Son Lot who had beene taken prisoner by them This Paraphrase was made in verse by the Prince of English Poets JOSHUA SYLVESTER ABRAM perceiving now the Army neer By their own Fires 'gan thus his Troups to cheer Souldiers said he behold this happy Night Shall make amends for that dis-astrous Fight Was fought in Siddim and acquittance cry For Sodom's shame and Lot's captivitie adorn'd Me thinks already Victory With Bowes and Blades and Casks and Croâ— return'd From th' Enemie on our triumphant spears Erecteth Trophe is far more rich then theirs Me thinkes already on our glistring Crests The glorious Garland of the Conquest rests Our way to vertue lyes so smooth and plain With painelesse Honour and unvent'red Gain This hoast you see is not the valiant Troup That stript Gomorrha and made Segor stoop That Jordan Inde and Euphrates admire But a foule Heard of Swine wall'wing in mâ— Regard them as they are not as they were See but their sloath do not their number fear He that 's asleep is dead and he that 's dead Bites not they say What have we then dread Why stay we Lads already down they are Their throats be naked and their bosoms bare Their lives lie prostrate heer at our command And Fortune cals but for your helping hand Come follow me rather the Lord of Hoasts Terror of Tyrants who through all the Coasts with a trough Of all the Earth confoundeth All worldly power and brings mens plots nought Come happy Troup follow with one accord â—h'invincible brave Standart of the Lord. This said eft-soons I wot not what a grace What divine beam reflected on his face â—or as in March the Serpent having cast â—is old foule skin crawls from his hole full fast â—isses and stings and stares us in the face â—nd gold-like glistring glides along the grasse â—o Heav'n enspires fresh vigour in each part His blood renews his heart doth take new heart 〈◊〉 martiall furie in his breast there boyls His stature seems more taller then yer-whiles Youth paints his cheeks with Rose and Lilly Dies A lovely Lightning sparkels in his eyes So that his gallant Port and gracefull voice Confirms the faintest makes the sad rejoice Then on the Camp he sets where round about Lie mingled Carrs and Horse and Men that rout Rest seizeth all and wanting what is fed The fire it self slept in his ashy bed Th' Hebrews the-while laid-on on back or brest Or arm or side according at their rest To th'ground had bound them and those lives bereft The which Death's Image in an Image reft Heer one beheaded on a Trunk of Pine Pours-out at once his gore his ghost and wiâ—â— The full Helm hops and with a voice confuse Murmurs as if it his fell Fate accused Another taken by inchanting sleep Mid Pots and Cups and Flagons quaffing deâ— Doth at a wound given in his rattling gorge The Wine againe in his owne Cup dis-gorge Another while ingeniously he playes Upon his Lute some passing-pleasing Layes Sleep seales his eyes up with a gloomy cloud And yet his hand still quavers light and lowd But at the last it sinks and offring fair To strike the Base strikes but the empty aire His soul descending to th' Infernall Coasts Goes to conclude his Song unto the Ghosts Dolefull it was not for the Argument For 't was of Love but for the sad event Another wak'ned with those lowd alarms Starts-up and groapeth round about for arms Which ah too soon he findeth for his part For a keen poignard stabs him to the heart Like as a Tigress having with the gore Of Buls and Hiefers made her spots the more And pav'd a Plain with Creatures mangled limâ— Views on each side her valiant stratagems Treads on the vanquisht and is proudly-sad That no more Foes nor no more Maw she haâ— Thâ— th' Hebrew stalking round-about the slain â—raves but it boots not and would very fain â—hat those dead bodies might their ghosts re-gather â—r that those mountaines would produce him rather â—ome Foes more wakefull that more manfully 〈◊〉 blood-drown'd Valleyes might his valour try Amor's three sons did no lesse slaughter make â—bram for zeale they but for furies sake â—his nails a Souldier with his Sword to th'ground â—hat at a blow th' heads of two Heads discrownd â—his underneath a Chariot kils the driver â—hat lops off legs and arms and heads doth shiver The Tents already all in blood do swim â—ushing from sundry Corps from severall lim 〈◊〉 brief so many ravening Wolves they seem â—ithin whose breast fierce Famine biteth keen â—ho softly stealing to some fold of Sheep While both the Shepheard and his Cur doth sleep â—urbush their hungry teeth tear kill and prey â—pon the best to eat and bear-away Yet at the length the vanquished awake â—nd re-ary'd the Victors under-take â—utting the three proud Amorites to flight â—ho but for Abram had bin routed quite Sleep sleep poor Pagans sith you needs dye Go sleep again and so dye easily Dye yer ye think on death and in your Dreaâ— Gasp-out your soules Let not your dazled bâ— Behold the hauock and the horrour too Of th' Execution that our Swords shall doâ— Hacking your bodies to heaw-out your breatâ— Yer Death to fright you with a thousand deaâ— Said Abraham and pointing every word With the keen point of his quicke-whirled swâ— As swift in doing as in saying so More fiercely chargeth the insulting Foe Than ever storm-full cloud which fed 〈◊〉 water 's Thin moist-full fumes the snowy mountaâ—â— daughters Showr'd heaps of hail-shot or pour'd flood rain On slender stems of the new tender Grain Through bloud and blades through danger and death Through mangled Corps and carrs he traverseâ— And partly in the shock part with the blowes He breaketh in through thickest of his Foes And by his travell topsi-turneth then The live and dead and half-dead horse and 〈◊〉 â—is bright-keen Fauchin never threats but hits â—or hits but hurts nor hurts but that it splits â—ome privie postern whence to Hell in Post â—ome groaning Pagan may gaâ—p out his ghost â—e all assayls and him so brave bestow's â—hat in his fight he deals more deaths than blows As the North-winde re-clearing-up the front â—f cloudy Heav'ns towards the South doth hunt â—he showr's that Austers spungie thirst exhales â—ut of those Seas that circle Orans wals â—o where-so-e're our Hebrew Champion wield â—is war-like weapon and his glistring shield Whose glorious splendor darts a dreadfull light â—ll turn their backs and all be-take to flight â—orgetting Fame Shame Vertue Hope and all â—heir hearts are
loiter and to seeke our carnall ease DAN Judgement THe mightie God his peoples cheefe refuge Hath set apart this DAN to be a JUDGE His enemies he shall pull downe and slay Mighty by wiles an Adder in the way 〈◊〉 teeth in heeles of horse he fixeth fast â—ill flatlings the rider fall at last The Use â—at good for God we cannot doe by might â—e must performe it by a holy slight GAD A troup an armie â—AD in thy name is both troup and armie Yet for a space thou shalt distressed be 〈◊〉 time shall come when thy dangers are past â—t thou thy foes shall overcome at last The Use â—re not to see good men goe under foot 〈◊〉 last the bad shall perish branch and root ASHER Blessing VVOrthy ASHER I can not passe from thee 〈◊〉 name containes blesse and felicite None shall be able thy blessings to spoile Thy bread is fat thou dips thy feete in oyle The Use Heere learne that Jovah riches doth bestoâ— On some making their Cup to overflow NAPHTALI My wrestling VVHile I behold this wrestler in my miâ— I see him swift light-footed liâ— a Hinde When in Battell he prevailed by Swords In praise to GOD he gave right goodly Words The Use Heere learne when GOD in war gives victâ— With goodly words to praise him thankfullâ— JOSEPH Adding I Adde to speak of JOSEPH the first borne Of faire RACHEL whom grace did muâ— adorne This is the Lad consider well and try â—or dreams and coat the object of envy â—rom doing ill his brethren could not fit â—ast Master Dreamer now into a pit â—y Reubens mercie this poore Isralite â—as drawne out and sold to an Ismalite â—fter by GODS assistance Singular â—n Egypt he was sold to Potiphar 〈◊〉 that land by GODS mercy and great might â—e found great favour in his Masters sight 〈◊〉 are in beautâ—e he was and chastitie â—s vile Mistresse on him did cast an eye â—ut no propins could him allure or move â—o yeeld unto that most vile strumpets love â—ecause of this by a sort of trâ—ason â—haste JOSEPH was cast into a prison â—herefore a space he did abide much griev'd â—y dreams againe he shortly was reliev'd â—y the first Dreame he restor'd the Butler â—ut by the next he hanged the Baker â—y so doing he conquer'd a great name â—o that Pharo was moved with his fame â—he ears of corne and kine both fat and leane â—ade Pharao seeke the meaning of his dreame â—hough many there in learning did excell â—et none but JOSEPH could the meaning tell â—hen was he high lift up to dignitie The voice of all was ABRECH bow the 〈◊〉 When he had to this honour great attain'd His father and his brethren he maintain'd At last his father on the bed of death Pow'd out this blessing with a holy breath JACOBS Blessing for JOSEPH TO thee JOSEPH my heart did muccline Thou art the bough of a most fruitfull Vine His brethen Mistresse causers of his smart Like bloody Archers sorely griev'd his heart But faith his bow and armes of vertues stroâ—â— Abode in strength these enemies among It was not his strength but the arme of Goâ— The hands of the mighty God of JACOB Blessings below and heav'ns blessings sureliâ— Blessings of breasts and wombe belong to thâ— God shall not faile my blessings to fullfill Sure shall they be unto the outmost hill Eternall blessings shall come with gâ—eat speed Like glorious garlands for to crown thine heaâ— Father ISAAC gave great blessings to me But greater blessings I shall give to thee The Use â—hough many sorrowes godly hearts do wound â—et at the last great comforts shall abound â—hough men to prison go and to the stocks 〈◊〉 tossed be as ships among great rocks â—r be so greev'd that they can not a little â—v'n but get leave to swallow dovvne their spettle â—et if on God their faith shall fix its eye â—hey with Joseph a good outgate shall see BENJAMIN Son of the right hand AT thy bitth Rachel was in hard labour Therefore thy name was son of my dolour â—t thy birth JACOB his deare RACHEL lost â—hen thou wast borne she yeelded up the ghost â—ot sonne of sorrow JACOB did command â—hee to be cal'd but sonne of the right hand â—ow BENjAMIN come hither unto me â—hat thou may heare what thy blessing shall be â—hou strong in war thy fiercest foes shall foile â—irst overcome and last divide the spoile The Use Without children Rachel she vvould but 〈◊〉 Hovv brittle are such pleasures heere yee 〈◊〉 In this blessing let all men learne thus faâ— That it is God that makes men stout in 〈◊〉 MOSES Dravvn out THis Sonne of AMRAM and of JOCHEBâ—â— Gods good people through many danâ—led When he was borne he was a goodly child In all his life he was both meeke and milde From drawing out at first he got his name His vertues after spread abroad his fame With JOCHEBED three months he did abidâ— For PHAROS fear she durst him no more hidâ— Poore mothers bowels heere behold and maâ— She made for him of Bulrushes an Arke She made great haste and stirred well her timâ— The Arke with pitch she dawbed and with shâ—â— Thus was good Moses set upon the River In a poore Boat without an Oare or Ruther While proud Nilus her brinks did overflow This young Boat-man could neither stirre nor roâ— Judge ye what griefe poore Jochebed did feele â—hile she thought of the Nilus Crocodile â—hen Moses thus did ly among the rush â—ing Pharos daughter came her self to wash â—mong the flags the Ark she did espy â—herein babe Moses did weep bitterly â—las said she with great compassion â—his is some Babe of th' Hebrew Nation 〈◊〉 soone as Miriam heard this good saying â—e ready was an Hebrew Nurse to bring â—en Pharos daughter earnst'ly did desire â—â—chebed nurse and she to pay the hire When he was growen one day he did espy 〈◊〉 man of Egypt smiting bitterly 〈◊〉 Israelite both with his foot and hand â—oses him slew and hid him in the sand â—t afterward he perceiving two other 〈◊〉 Israelite even smiting his own brother 〈◊〉 th' one he said God doth not this allow â—â—ou art perverse in smitting thy fellow â—ho made thee Judge answ'red this perverse man â—ilt thou me kill as thou didst th' Egyptian 〈◊〉 is matter said MOSES is come to light 〈◊〉 refuge is to save my life by flight â—n MOSES from the land of Egypt fled 〈◊〉 to the land of Midian where he fed The flock of JETHRO in a painfull life Who gave to him his ZIPPORAH for wife In this meane time as by GODS word we seâ— PHARO the tyran of Egypt did die Gods people then their burdens did bemone God with respect did heare their sighs and groâ— As MOSES fed the flock at Mount SINAH There in a fire appear'd the great JOVAH The fire the bush did burne but not consume VVith shooes on feet MOSES did then presâ— For to draw neere he
heard this divine sounâ— Pull off thy shoes for this is holy ground I am the great Almighty Lord he said To look on God then MOSES was affraid I have said God with much compassion Seene of my people the great affliction On Israels back the burdens deep furrowes Have made and now I pittie their sorrowes Go to that Tyran with thy little rod And tell that thou art sent from the great Goâ— How shall I goe said MOSES I thy name Know not if thy people enquire the same Say thou said God by my commandement I AM THAT I AM hath me surely sent Oh said Moses they will not believe me Where will they say did GOD appeare to the 〈◊〉 They shall said GOD know that I have thee â—ast downe thy rod and lo it a serpent â—gaine behold a rod it shall become â—nother signe shall be in thy bosome â—t in thine hand and see it white as snow â—â—d whole againe that they may clearely know â—â—at thou by GOD Almighty hast beene sent â—â—d what thou dost is by commandement â—as said Moses my words hardly flow â—er both my speach and al 's my tongue is slow 〈◊〉 are not said GOD let not that cause thee griefe â—â—rme the speach I make thee dumb and deaf 〈◊〉 said Moses mine heart I cannot frame 〈◊〉 go this earand to speake in thy name â—en GOD with Moses in great anger chod â—â—on a mouth shall be and thou as GOD 〈◊〉 as afterward these noble brethren two â—ent on and stood before the great Pharo â—â—mmanding him with great authoritie 〈◊〉 free GODS people from captivitie â—â—cause that this King thus hardned his heart â—â—ten great plagues his Kingdome felt the smart The ten plagues of Egypt contained in five Latine verse â—ma rubens unda Ranarum plaga secunda â—â—e culex tristis post Musca nocentior istis Quinta pecus stravit Authraces sexta â—vit Post sequitur grando post Bruchus dente fando Nona tegit solem primam nec at ultima proâ— The ten plagues of Egypt in English verse Blood first then frogs and third the lâ— filthie Fourth after all these came the noisom flie The fift upon the beasts vvas the murraiâ— Sixt lothsome boiles breakeing foorth vvâ— great blaine Seventh haile eight locusts and the ninâ— darkenesse Last on the first borne both death and distâ— In other verse Blood frogs and lice a mixed svvarme Murraine that beasts annoyde Boiles haile locusts and darknesse thick The first borne all destroyde VVHen this was done MOSES with his armie â—ent with all hast towards the deep red sea â—ere Israel enrich'd with great butin â—gainst MOSES began so to mutin â—n both sides mountaines and the sea before â—hold PHARO behind us to devore 〈◊〉 Moses now the cause of our distresse â—ou hast us brought to die in wildernesse 〈◊〉 and still said Moses stay your passion â—d ye shall see the Lords salvation â—retch out thy hand said God over the sea â—d by thy rod devided shall it be â—en Moses his hand of strong faith out-stretched 〈◊〉 an East wind the deep sea was divided â—hen Israel this great comfort had found â—mong waters they walked on drie ground â—e mighty Lord made way unto them all â—e waters were on every side a wall â—hen with an armie PHARO them pursu'd â—ut overwhelm'd with waves they were subdu'd â—y let us flee said they and turne the heeles â—ut great JOVAH tooke off their charet wheeles â—ODS Isra'l had in all this fearfull tide 〈◊〉 Cloud for sconce and al 's a Fire for guide At last Isra'l saved both lesse and more Saw Pharos hoast dead upon the Sea shore Then Moses with the people spake saying A song of praise to JOVAH let us sing The Song of Moses at the red Sea I Will novv sing unto the Lord for he hath gloriously Triumphed over all his foes novv drovvn'd in the red Sea 2 The Lord he is my Strength and Song and my Salvation I gladly vvill prepare for him an habitation 3 With frothy deepths God covered them this work he did alone His heavy wrath did presse them so they sanke down like a stone 4 Thy right hand O Lord is become most glorious in great power Thine arme and thy right hand thy foes have novv dasht all to povvder 5 Thou hast thy foes now overthrown in great excellencie â—hou sentest foorth thy fearfull wrath that they consum'd might be And with the blast of thy nostrils the waters gathered there he floods stood upright as an heap the deepths congealed were The en'my said I will pursue them will I overtake will divide the spoile my lust on them novv vvill I vvreake It is novv time to dravv my Svvord them vvill I all destroy purpose novv to make an end and this shall be my joy But thou O Lord vvith thy great vvinde most fearfully did blovv â—hey sanke as lead in vvaters deep the vvaves did overflovv Who is like unto thee O Lord amongst the greatest gods â—ho is like thee so glorious so mighty by thy rods 11 Thou stretchedst out thy strong right hâ— Earth swallowed them wholly In mercy thou led foorth thine owne whom thou hadst bought dearly 12 The people all shall heare of this and they shall be afraide The indwellers of Palestine with grief shall be dismaide 13 The Duks of Edom all amaz'd with Moab tremble shall The indwellers of Canaan shall melt away and fall 14 Both feare and dread shall fall on them by strength of thine army Vntill Isra'l passe over they still as a stone shall be 15 Thou strong shalt bring them in and them in thine holy place Even in thy sanctuary O Lord establish'd by thy grace 16 The Lord shall reigne for evermore most like a mighty King For he on Pharo and his host the loftie waves did bring 17 But as for his deare Israel in bottome of the Sea â—tweene two walls of waters deep they went both sure and dry Miriams song at the red Sea THen Miriam the Prophetesse the sister of Aaron â—anced with women skilfully playing Timbrels upon And Miriam thus answerde them praise God most joyfully or he the rider and his horse hath drown'd in the red Sea AFter all this Isra'l in wildernesse Of Shur by thirst did suffer great distresse â—hat shall we drink said they ah shall we die â—hen Moses cry'd and GOD shew'd him a tree â—ith this tree Moses direct'd by GODS sprite â—t Marah made the bitter waters sweet â—rom thence to Sin he did the people lead Who did murmur because they wanted breaâ— There God the Lord did feed that numbâ—â— hoast With sweet Mannah round small as the frost Againe for thirst Isra'l at Rephidim Did murmur against the great God of Heav'â— Then God his servant Moses did command To smite the rock with his rod in his hand For chiding striving heere with great Iovah The place was call'd Massah and Meribah God by Moses his people did protect In that great battell against Amalek His
not knew â—hom your fathers did never fear because they were but new 18 Thou art unmindfull of the Rock that did thee once beget And the Lord God that formed thee thou did'st alwayes forget IIII. PART AND when the Lord saw it he did ahhorre them all anone Because of the provokeing of both Daughter and of Son 20 He said I will my face from them hide and I will now see Their end they are a froward race in whom no faith can be 21 With that which is not god they have me mov'd to jealousie They have me to anger provok'd with their great vanitie I them also to jealousie with such as are no flock Will move them to anger with fooles I surely will provoke 22 For in my wrath fire kindled is such as no tongue can tell â—t shall not cease alwayes to burne even to the lowest hell And shall consume the earth with her increase poor mans desire And the foundations of the mount shall surely set on fire 3 A heap of mischiefs upon them I certainly will send also upon them in wrath mine arrovves vvill novv spend 4 They shall consumed be and burnt vvith paine of hunger great â—nd suddainly shall be devour'd vvith a most burning heat â—nd vvith bitter destruction I vvill al 's on them thrust â—he teeth of beasts vvith the poyson of serpents of the dust â— The svvord vvithout terrour vvithin shall destroy and not spare â—â—e young man virgin the suckling vvith the man of gray haire â— I said I vvould into corners them quickly scatter then I would make their rememberance to cease from among men 27 Were it not that I the great wrath fear'd of the enemie Lest their vaine adversaries should behave themselves strangly And lest that they puft up with pride should say these wordes right soone Our hand is now high and the Lord hath not all this work done 28 For they are a vaine nation of wholesome counsell voide Neither in their hearts foolish doth understanding abide 29 O that they were wise so that they this clearely understood That they would now their latter end consider for their good 30 How should but one a thousand chase and two al 's put to flight Ten thousand if their Rock had not then sold and shut up right 32 For their rock in no way is as our Rock that is mightie â—ee seeke no other this to judge but our owne enemie â—2 Of Sodom and Gomorrahs field their vine I truely call â—heir great clusters are most bitter their grapes are grapes of gall â—3 Their wine is Dragons poison which from these grapes doth distill And is the deadly venime of most cruell Aspes that kill â—4 Is not this wickednesse laid up in store there to abide And seal'd up among my treasures like that which one doth hide IIII. PART TO me belongeth vengeance and recompence for their crime Their wicked foot shall surely slide in due appointed time For their day of calamitie is surely neere at hand And the things that shall come on them make haste and shall not stand 36 For the Lord shall his people judge and for his folks repent When he sees all their power gone and altogether spent 37 And he in his great wrath shall say Where are their gods of might Their rock in whom they trusted much they come not now in sight 38 Which ate fatlings and wine off'rings in drinke did not reject Let them rise up and with their strength you help and al 's protect 39 See now that I am he even I no god there is with me I kill I also make alive I wound and heal safely Neither is there among the gods any by Sea or Land That by their strength deliver can out of my mighty hand 40 For I my hand unto the Heav'n do now lift up and heave In signe that I this great oath make for ever as I live 41 If I my glitt'ring Sword whet and judge in severitie will surely reward vengeance to my foes that hate me â—2 I will mine arrowes in my wrath which is now kindled sore Make drunk with blood and my Sword shall their filthie flesh devore â—nd that with the blood of the slaine and of captives that be â—rom the beginning of revenge upon the enemie â—3 Rejoice yee nations with his folke for he who doth not change Will the blood of his servants dear most speedily avenge And to his adversaries will render a vengeance full And to his land and his people will be most mercifull The Use He who desires like good Moses to be In all Gods house let him serve faithfullie He who vvith Moses vvould be a Divine Must speak vvith God untill that his face shâ— None is so good but he vvill get assaults Love Moses vertues but flee from his fault To circumcise his Son he did delay At Meribah he also vvent astray At these vvaters he failed in his faith For vvhich he might not tread in Canans paâ— See vvhat it is to sin against the Lord Who Moses sin to spare vvould not accord God hateth sin in best men as yee see Though they be dear as th' apple of his eye AARON Prince of praise THis Prince of praise was Moses brother 〈◊〉 Elder then MOSES the space of three yâ— These brethren two were men of great requeâ— MOSES was King but Aaron was the Priest 〈◊〉 He was design'd such by the Almond rod Mouth to MOSES to him Moses as God When God by him as high Priest was ador'd His body was with these garments decor'd A girdle mitter and a broidred coat â—ob an Ephod and a rich breast-plate â—ith URIM TUMMIM an excellent thing â—s incense censer in his hand did hing â—â—elve precious stones on his breast were without â—lls Pomegranats his Ephod hang about â—â—on his brow there was a plate of gold â—â—aring these words HOLINES TO THE LORD 〈◊〉 the Holy of Holys thus he stood â—â—fore the Lord with a bason of blood â—nce in his life alas he playd the foole â—hen he the Calf form'd with a graving toole â—fter he saw it this he added more â—e rashly built an Altar it before â—ecause at MASSAH he fail'd in his faith â—f Canaan he might not tread the path â—ripe off his garments put them on his Son â—or he in office no more may remaine â—pon mount HOR death him of life bereaved â—ho fourtie yeares in wildernesse had lived â—hen God him tooke from this earths miserie â—f age he was an hundred twentie three â—his holy man most upright in his wayes â—as after death lamented thirty dayes The Use Most happy he who hath his breast within â—hat which without was sealed by Tummim Let no man a vaine people for to please Doe that which may the mighty Lord displeâ— MIRIAM Bitternesse THis MOSES sister daughter of AMRAM From bitternesse was called MIRIAM Elder then Moses at the river side She watcht the Boat wherein they did him 〈◊〉 At the red sea when MOSES men among Did
to Balak I a man Am come unto thee to do what I can Have I now power any thing to say What GOD me bids that shall I speak this day Then Balak went anone with Balaam And quickly to Kiriath-Huzoth they came There Balak oxen did offer with sheep He sent for BALAM whose science was deep The morrow after BALAM came quicklie To Baals high places that he might see From thence of GODS ISRA'L the utmost part That by his curse that whole people might smart And Balam said unto Balak Build me Heere sev'n altars and prepare heere quicklie Seven oxen faire and seven fat rams also Balak as Balam had spoken did so And Balak and Balam off'red quicklie On each altar for sacrifice to be A Bullock and a Ram Then Balam spake Unto this King that called was Balak Stand by thy burnt off'ring and I will go Peradventure GOD will come me unto And give counsell what he shall shew to me I will without failing all tell to thee Then Balaam unto an high place went And the Lord there met him incontinent Then he said I sev'n altars did prepare And there have off'red now to me declare What I shall say to Balak Moabs King Then GOD put in his mouth this word saying Returne unto Balak and thus boldlie To him thou shalt speake this message from me Then he return'd when he thus understood And went to Balak who with Princes stood And he tooke up his parable and said Balak the King This charge on me hath laid From Aram I have beene brought by this Kinâ— Out of the mountaines of the East saying Come curse me Jacob and Isra'l defy Whom God hath not curst how him curse shal For from the top of the rocks I him see And him behold from the hils that are hie Loe this people in a great number throng Shall dwell alone and nations among Shall not be reck'ned who can count or tell The dust of Jacob or fourth of Isra'l Let me the death of the righteous man die And let my last end like unto his be And Balak said unto Balaam soone What meanest thou What hast thou to me do Mine enemies to curse I did take thee Behold thou hast them blessed most surely Then Balaam said Think not this uncouth For I must speake what God puts in my mouth Then Balak said I pray now come with me Unto a place from whence thou may them 〈◊〉 The out most part thou shalt see and no more Come and curse me them all from thence theâ—â—fore He brought him to the field of ZOPHIM land To PISGAS top whether God did command MOSES to go the promisde land to see That so after that sight MOSES might die There Balam said to Balak Stand heere by Thy burnt off'ring untill that quickly I Do yonder meet the great Almighty Lord And the LORD met Balam and put his word In Balams mouth and likewise said that day Returne againe unto Balak and say When Balam came unto Balak the King Behold he there stood by his burnt off'ring There with him were Princes of MOAB land Then Balak said Now let me understand What the LORD GOD in this perplexitie Hath both reveal'd and spoken unto thee And he tooke up his parable and said Rise up Balak and heare an answere made Thou Son of Zippor hearken unto me The Lord is not a man that he should lie Nor the Son of man that he should repent To say one thing and after to relent Hath the Lord said and shall he not it do Hath he spoken and shall he it not to Perfection bring Behold I now must blesse God hath blessed and I can not reverse In Jacob he hath not iniquitie Beheld neither at any time hath he Seene perversenesse in all Isra'l about God is with him among them is a shout Of a King God from Egypt land forlorne Them brought He hath as of an Vnicorne The strength surely where God is still presâ— Against Jacob there is no enchantment Neither against the Lords most deare Isra'l Can divination once prevaile at all According to this time it shall be thought And said of Jacob what hath the Lord wroâ—â— Behold the people shall rise up anone As a great Lion and a young Lion Lifts up himselfe and lyes not downe again Vntill he eat and drink blood of the slaine And Balak said unto Balam that day Neither them curse nor yet blesse I thee pray Told I not thee said Balaam unto Balak all that GOD saith that I must doe Yet Balak said unto Balam that day Come now with me I do thee heartly pray I will bring thee unto another place Peradventure thou wilt from God get grace That thou may'st for my poor Kingdomes deâ—â— Powre on them all a heavy curse from thence Then King Balak brought Balaam anone To PEORS top that looks to JESHIMON And Balam said unto Balak Build me Heere sev'n altars prepare right speedily Heere sev'n bullocks and sev'n fat rams well fed And Balak did as Balaam had said There were off'red a Bullock and a Ram On each altar they did performe the same And when Balam saw that it pleas'd the LORD To blesse ISRA'L he did no more accord As heeretofore to go incontinent For by his art to seeke for enchantment But he perplex'd in Sprite with great distresse Did set his face toward the wildernesse Then Balaam his eyes aloft lifting Saw ISRAEL in his tents abiding According to their Tribes GODS Spirit anone With this parable came Balam upon Balam the Son of Beor hateing lies Hath said even the man who hath op'ned eyes He hath said which heard the LORDS words truely Which saw the vision of the Almighty Falling into a great trance but having His eyes open to discerne every thing How good thy tents are Jacob who can tell And thy fair tabernacles O Israel As the valleyes all spread forth do abide As greene gardens by the fair rivers side As ligne-aloes which is of sweetest smell As besides waters Cedars high and tall Out of his buckets be shall powre indeed The waters and in great waters his seed And his King higher then Agag shall be And his Kingdome shall be exalted hie God brought him out of Egypt land forlorne He hath the strength as of an Vnicorne Hee shall eat up all those that are his foe And break their bones and pierce them throâ— also With his arrowes he couched he lay downe As a Lion and as a great Lion Who shall him stirre up he that shall thee bleâ—â— Is blessed and cursed that shall thee curse Then Balaks anger kindled with despight Waâ— ' gainst Balam together he did smite His hands saying I called thee surely For to curse but thou hast blessd these times threâ— Therefore now flee unto thy place and lot I thought thee to great honour to promote But lo the Lord in this hath not beene slack â—n wrath he hath from honour keept thee back And Balam said unto Balak This thing Spake I
to these that passed by VVhy is his Charet so long dâ— coming VVhat is the let VVhy tary thus the most svvift vvheeles of his princely Charet 29 VVhen her vvise Ladies heard these vvords they did not long defer To give answer yea to her selfe she return'd this answer 30 Have they not well sped in battell have they not all also Parted the prey to every man a Dam sell or two To Sisera a most rich prey who did his strong foes foile A colour d prey of needle work for these that take the spoil 31 So let thy foes perish O Lord but who with heart upright Love him let them be as the Sun going foorth in his might After these forces were by God represt Gods Israel had fourtie yeers of rest The Use Heere we may learne how Gods great Majestie Can by a wife obtaine a victorie 5. GIDEON Cutting off GReat GIDEON my verse now come to thâ— A cutting off thy name doth signifie The great God in mercy sent thee a man To save Isra'l from cruell MIDIAN This son of JOASH in Isra'ls distresse Was threshing Wheat besides his owne Wiâ— presse To him an Angel said with great favour The Lord is with thee thou man of valour Alas O Lord moved with grife said he That God is with us Oh it cannot be Where are the wonders our fathers us told By Midian we crosses manifold Do suffer oh our miseries they scoff The Lord in wrath his people hath cut off To him said God Now go in this thy might Against these men thou shalt for Isra'l fight O Lord said he what power can I have Wherewith I may thy people ISRA'L save In MANASSEH my familie is poore My fathers house such paines can not endure Goe to goe to said God do what thou can I shall thee help to smite them as one man If thou O Lord said GIDEON wouldst me To fight a signe first I desire to see According to this godly mans desire God by his staffe from the hard rock a fire Brought forth which did consume incontinent Both flesh and broth and caks GID'ON present When he thus saw he trembling said Alas Gods Angel now I have seene face to face Feare not said God let nothing trouble thee I give thee peace thou surely shalt not die Then he an altar did build without cease JEHOVAH-SHALOM the Lord God send peace When this was done which was his great renowne Baals altar with great zeal he threw downe Because he fear'd his foes that were of might He not by day but did it in the night When this was done the city all agast Unto JOASH his father quickly past Bring out thy Son that vile villaine quickly Soone bring him out for he shall surely die Then Joash said Your brags are but scorning He shall be kill'd while it is yet morning Who darre for BAAL onely speak a word If he be God now let him plead by sword Therefore JOASH from such pleading did call His godly sonne by name JERUBBAAL Then MIDIAN with AMALEK in ire With an great host against him did conspire With deaw and drienesse the Lord on the fleece Encouragd him from battell not to cease Then JOVAH said The men that are with thâ— Be too many to give you victorie Who so is fearefull and of courage bad Let him returne now from Mount Gilead When Gideon stout these words proclamed tâ—â— Returned twentie and two thousand men Then ten thousand were in Gods host that day Yet is the Haost too many God did say Go to the waters see what lapers be These are the men that I will send with thee Three hundred men lapped upon the brink But all the rest bow'd downe their heads to dâ—â— This being done behold one did proclaime Unto his fellow in the host a dreame A barley kake said one tumbled our tent Another said this a fearfull rent Our mighty army shall both faint and fall Before GIDEON called JERUBBAAL When Gideon heard the telling of the dreamâ— Hee worshipped the mighty God of heaven Then with all hast his host he did command Trumpets pitchers with lamps to take in haâ—â— When I the Trumpet blow then blow each oâ— â—ry Sword of the LORD and of GIDEON â—hey brake pitchers the lamps in their left hand â—hey blew Trumpets as GIDEON did command â—hile Isra'l did these Princely Trumpets blow â—â—ery mans Sword was against his fellow â—he Lord himselfe that great Battell did fight â—hen all MIDIAN were turned to the flight â—hile they this armie hotely did pursue â—hey OREB ZEEB two great Princes slew â—nto his hand likewise great JEHOVAH â—eliv'red ZEBAH and stout ZALMUNNAH â—he flesh of SUCCOTH and PENUEL in feare â—â—ter this done with sharpe thornes did he teare â—ut he at last forgetting the great God â—f rich earerings made an idole Ephod â—f lawfull sons he had threescore and ten And ABIMELEH of a concubine The Use Heere for a space men may GODS cause defend And yet at last with idoll Ephods end Blest is he vvho serves GOD with heart entire And like the Sun about Heav'ns Bandeleere Galopping still doth not faint in his race With Gods children that tread the paths oâ— grace 6. ABIMELECH My Father King MY Father King ABIMELECH thy â—â— Doth signifie a bastard full of shame This villaine full of fearfull crueltie Upon one stone did kill nine and fiftie Of his brethren in number like a hive Onely JOTHAM the youngest left alive He with silver vaine men and light did hire Against his brethren he did thus conspire His mothers friends of SHECHEM he did bâ— Who with the house of MILLO made him Kâ— Then JOTHAM went unto Gerizim hill And cried down this pricking parable The trees went forth on a time to annoint A king the Olive first they did appoint The Olive then said Nothing I doe lake For crownes I will not my fatnesse forsake Then with one voice they said to the fig-tree Come thou and now receive the dignitie The fig-tree then said Nothing I do lake For crowns I will not my sweetnesse forsake Then all the trees the crowne like a propine With one consent offred unto the Vine The Vine tree then said Nothing I do lake For crownes I will not my liquour forsake Then all the trees did to the Bramble bring The crowne who was content for to be King Well said the Bramble well I you allow Come now and put your trust in my shadow If not let fire come from the Bramble soone Of Lebanon the Cedars to consume Well well said Jotham O unthankfulnesse Soone have ye forgot my fathers kindnesse His life for you he did adventure far And now of his children ye murdrers are Ye Shechem Millo lewdly did conspire Yee for such things shall be consum'd with fire When Abimelech reigned had yeeres three The Lord to punish his great crueltie Sent an ill Sprite betwixt him and Shechem Who helped him to murder his brethren Then Gaal with other Shechemites stout Desir'd that
me a man of noble fame Most angel-like he told me not his name He said unto me when he did appear Behold a son thou shalt conceive and bear No rasor shall at all come on his head For he shall be a Nazarite indeed LORD said Manoah Let the man of GOD Now come and tell us what with this young lad We have to do for we are ignorant That we may follow thy commandement The LORD him heard the Angel came anone And told them both all that was to be done Then Man'oah said I pray thee now tary Till we in haste prepare a kid for thee I am a sprite said he I eat no bread With sacrifice unto the LORD proceed What is thy name said Manoah tell me It is secret said he now let it be When he heard thus the Angel him forbid A meat-offring he offred for a kid Unto the LORD as the sacred story Tels us the Angel did most wondrously Behold th'angel who had the secret name Of the offring ascended in the flame Alas said he unto his worthy wife We have seen GOD we shall both losse the life No not said she we need not for to fear Because GODS Angel to us did appear If to kill us this had been his earand He had disdain'd the offring in our hand Then young Samson the Sprite of GOD began At times to move in the great camp of Dan At last he did require a Philistine For wife which he at Timnah had new seen His parents to this could not well accord For they knew not that it was of the LORD While he to Timnah went a beast did roar As though he would the young Samson devore But he anone him pulling by the beard Rent him as though he would have rent a kid The LORD did this who made the sea and land For young Samson had nothing in his hand Returning after to his wife he sees In the dead Lion a fair swarm of bees The honey comb most sweet he took to eat For this to him in mister was for meat When Philistines his feast began to taste Then he this riddle did propone in haste Out of the eater said he came there meat Out of the strong came that which was most sweet Seven dayes they had at this riddle to guesse But the meaning thereof could not expresse With furie great they were puft up in rage Because they saw they were to losse their pledge Of thirtie shirts and thirtie garments dear These great charges they had not will to bear Then said they all unto strong Samsons wife If we these cloaths losse thou shalt losse the life Entise him soone the doubt try by request Why should we losse so much at his fair feast Then did she presse him by day and by night Untill he had declar'd his riddle right Then said these men in words not to be long Sweet is the honey and the lion strong Then said he With my heifer have ye plow'd Who hath unto you my dark riddle shew'd Then GODS good Sprite this strong man came upon Who in his strength went down to Askelon Thirty Philistins he kild in that place Whose garments pay'd for his riddels disgrace Then his fair wife her father took him fro And gave her to his friend who was his fo Then he bethinking how he might revenge This wrong he did three hundred foxes range Knut tail to tail with a burning fire-brand Which did consume the cornes upon the land When all was known the Philistins in ire Burnt the Timnite and Samsons wife with fire This is no mends yet aveng'd will I be Said Samson I will smite them hip and thigh The Philistins who did like lions ramp In JUDAH LEHI soon did pitch their camp What means this war to them Judah did say To binde Samson with ropes and thongs said they Then of Judah went three thousand anone To Etams top where was the strong Samson To him they said What hast thou brought to passe We all will smart for this thy great trespasse To these men I have done no wrong said he I did to them as they have done to me We will thee binde said they with cords and bands After we will put thee into their hands Swear to me said he by GOD that made all That ye your selves will not upon me fall Truely said they thy blood we must not spill Thou needs not fear that Judahs men thee kill But unto this we with one voice accord To binde thine hands fast with these two new coar◠Then when his foes saw him bound at Lehi For joy they cry'd and shouted mightily Upon him then came a Sprite from the LORD With great power hee brake both bands and coards When he himself did thus shake in his ire His bands became like flaxe burnt in the fire When GOD had this great work thus brought to passe Strong Samson found the jaw-bone of an asse No sword he had no other weapons then With that asse-bone he slew a thousand men After this battel sore troubled with thirst Upon his eyes he felt of death the mist Thou hast me helped greatly LORD said he Oh suffer not me now for thirst to die Then GOD did cleave of the jaw the hollow From this bone soone great waters out did flow Because that bone by GOD was made a Well Samson that place Enhakore did call The Word signifieth the Well of him that called or cryed SAMSON in Gaza went to an harlot His foes it heard and they in anger hote Laid wait for him in their great strength might Resolv'd they were to kill him in that night But he the gates of their Gaza did take With the two posts and barre upon his back He thence them cari'd to fair Hebron hill Thus the Gazits could not strong Samson kill Againe Samson in Sorek land did love Delilah fair who dayly would him move With her fair words decit and flattery To tell wherein his greatest strength did ly First wit hs then coards then with the web and 〈◊〉 To her such answers thus he did begin But at the last for which he suffred smart He unto her revealed all his heart A Nazarite said he from my youth-head I have been no rasor upon mine head Hath come If any cut mine hair from me Like other men I surely weak shall be When she saw that Samson had thus reveal'd That which from her he had so long conceal'd The Philistins she spake and cald apart Come now said she for I know all his heart Then these proud lords came up in a great band And brought to her much money in their hand Then she him made upon her knees to sleep And from his head his seven locks she did swee◠Up up said she arise Samson quickly Behold the strong Philistins be on thee I will arise said Samson and me shake As heretofore of strength I have no lake But Oh Samson this did not understand That GOD the LORD had left him
secret wrath to open felonnie He went pursuing David cruellie For this David to Achish in Gath fled There he as mad the spittle on his beard Let fall in this most pitifull estate Forced like fools he scrabled on the gate From thence to Keilah from Keilah he past To Ziph where he almost by Saul was lost At Engedi where he revenge might have He spar'd Sauls life inclosed in a cave In wildernesse having provision small He was refused by churlish Nabal Of all Sauls house the worthy Jonathan Of Davids comforts onely was the man David at last fled to the land of Gath Untill God had puld Saul away by death His death which would have made another glad Made him to sigh and many teares to shed The lamentations of David for the death of Saul and Jonathan ALas my heart said David doth disdaine These vile villains who have unto us Slaine The Royall blood the beautie of Israel How they are fall'n beware in Gath to tell Or Askelon let no man heare your voice Lest the daughters of Philistins rejoice O Gilboa now cursed must thou be Let neither deaw nor raine fall downe on thee For there thee shields of men armed with might Were cast away like men that could not fight There Saul fell downe upon that cursed soile As though he had not been annoint with oyle Saul and Jonathan two men most mighty Your bow and sword returned not empty Saul and Jonathan in lyfe were lovelie They in there death would not divided be The Eagles Lions both in strength and flight Were overcome by these two men of might O daughters worthy the name of Isra'l Let floods of teares now bubble out and fall For worthy Saul whose purpose was still set To deck with gold and cloath you with scarlet It greeves my heart to think or yet to tell How these mightie did fall in the battell O Jonathan I must most weep for thee For thou a friend and brother was to me Thy love to me was more then love of men Yea it did passe the best love of women Of Davids Reigne OF Davids reigne clearely I will record Who was faithfull beloved of the Lord When Saul was slaine and Jonathan was dead The Crown of Judah was on Davids head In Hebron set Then he sent to Jabesh And thanked them for their loving kindnesse For taking downe from the walls of Bethshan The bodies of Saul and of Jonathan In this meane time which did great troubles bring Abner annointed Ishbosheth as king Joab for David was then cheefe captaine Against Abner who Sauls house did maintaine In that armie Abner began to say Let the young men now sport and rise to play Content said Joab then twelve on each side Arose to fight each man anothers head Caught in his hand and then most cruelly His sharp sword thrust in his brothers belly That day betweene Judah and Israel Was first a skirmish and then a battell A battell great last Abner in that fight Was beaten sore he sav'd himselfe by flight While he did flie Asahel did pursue But Abner straited swift Asahel slew Though Abners armie was in good aray Good David got the victory that day Though David was these great troubles among Yet by Gods arme he dayly was made strong Stout Abner who did Ishbosheth defend Unto David revolted in the end After this man by Joabs treachery Was slaine which moved David bitterly To weep and mourne while of it he did heare Last he himself mourning follow'd the biere Alas said he with sorrow and great doole Did valiant Abner die as doth a foole This great breach now can be made up hardly The sons of Zerviah be too strong for me Then Baanah and Rechab did conspire To slay Ishbosheth for to winne a hire These bloody men him stobbed on his bed And after that with haste to Hebron fled Where David was they thought to have good speed When they to him offred Ishbosheths head As God liveth said David who hath me Redeemed out of all adversitie Yee shall be slaine by a most fearfull death I shall you both take away from the earth Come out young men cut off their hands and feet And hang them up a judgement for them meet Then all Isra'l with one voice consenting Appointed David there captaine and King When he was crown'd of yeers he was thirtie His reigne continued the space of fourtie First seven in Judah after he did beare His faire Scepter for three and thirty yeere He tooke Jebus who thought as they were bold That blind and lame might surely keep their hold When the Philistines heard that he was King A great armie against him they did bring At Baal-Perazim he them overthrewe With great slaughter these Philistins he slew Their idols there they left their hearts desire Which David tooke and after burnt with fire Yet came againe the Philistins like bees Whom David smot at the Mulberie trees When rest was come he prepar'd speedily To have Gods Ark lodg'd in his owne city Of good duetie he did neglect no part He did prepare for it a new made cart While it was driv'n by Ahio and Uzzah Great mirth by all was made unto Jovah Timbrels and harps cymbals and psalterie With Cornets sweet made pleasant melodie While all was joy behold anone a jar A fearfull breach which all their mirth did mar It was both sore and suddain with terrour For God there smote Uzzah for his errour The Levits shoulders for to bear the Arke Ordained were and not an oxen cart The Levits might as the Lord did command It carie but not touch it with their hand At this great breach good David sore afraide Both Arke and Cart in this journey he staide In Obed-Edoms house he did it place Which in three moneths it did fill with grace When David heard of such grace and goodnessâ— To his City he brought it with gladenesse He was so glad that in all Isra's sight He danc'd before the Lord with all his might To be more nimble in his dance to God He was girded with a linnen Ephod As they came neere unto Davids citie Michal beheld all with a scorning eye When all was done with gladnesse manifold David returned to blesse his houshold Him Michal met and scorningly did say A beast a foole a vaine fellow this day Thou hast thee showne this was her bitter word What reck sad he it was before the Lord Thy taunting speach doth not sinke in my minde The Lord me hath preferr'd to thee and thine From holy zeal I will not now refile I purpose yet to be more base and vile Though thou me scorne and speake so tauntinglie By men and maids I shall hence honour'd be After great warres when David had got rest To build a house for God he thought it best In house of Cedar said he I now dwell But onely Curtains are for th' Eternell What shall I doe to Nathan did he say Go to said Nathan do without delay
this was said their was a skirmish rude By the two armies made in Ephraim wood Like a great wind boistrous with stormy puff Men fought in spight with mutuall counterbuff That day Joab with Judahs brave children Of Isra'l slew downe twentie thousand men The people was sore scatt'red in the wood Which did devoure more people then the sword There Absalom a Rebell and a Foole Among the rest was riding on a Mule By his long haire a branch caught him that day There he did hing when the Mule went away Then Joab with his three darts came anone And thurst them through the heaâ—t of Absalom Then Cushi came and cri'd Tidings O King To the great God now praises may thou sing The LORD of Hoasts in Battell most mightie Of all thy foes hath now avenged thee Then David troubled said unto Cushi Is Absalom the young man in safetie Then Cushi said Let all thy foes indeed Be like Absalom who is surely dead When David heard this wounded was his heart From sight of men quickly he did depart To an high chamber for to mourne alone The tragick death of his deare Absolon His sorrow such was in his wounded heart That forc'd he was to weep and go apart With teares of grief doubling My son my son He wish'd his owne death had sav'd Absalon For Davids murder and adulterie Shebah arose who was son Bichri A Benjamite he with sterne countenance Most proudly said Now what inheritance Have we in David Let us make a rent Let every man returne unto his tent So Isra'l did with this son of Bichri But Judah clave to David heartily Then David said to valiant Amasa Assemble me the brave men of Judah Then he went out Captaine of that armie Jaob him met with heart full of envie Cov'red with smiles his right hand made a wound Which all his bowels shed out to the ground Then Amasa in mids of the high way Bath'd in his blood did thus wallow that day This done Joab pursued speedily After Shebah who was son of Bichri When Joab came to the city Abel This Shebahs head was throwne downe from the wall When these of Abel had perform'd this thing Joab in haste returned to the King When all his foes were round about supprest To sing to GOD due praises he thought best Yet once againe Gods wrath ' gainst Israel In Davids time upon this people fell He stirr'd by Satan would know in his pride How many men in his land did abide To Joab he gave this direction Who liked not the Kings commission But yet obey'd the Kings word did prevaile Therefore he went and numbred Israel In Isra'l were eight hundred thousand men Five hundred thousand Judah their brethren In number were Of all as saith Gods word Were thirteene hundred thousand that drew sword When this was done then Davids heart him smot Gods wrath therefore was shortly kindled hot Alas O Lord said he now pitie me For I confesse I have done foolishly When David did arise in the morning The prophet Gad this word to him did bring Advise and chuse one of these judgements three If seven yeeres of famine shall trouble thee Or if thou wilt three moneths chuse and take Before thy foes to flee and turne the back Or if thou wilt have this great patience Three dayes to hazard on the pestilence When David saw the Lords wrath thus appeare Hee said to Gad I am in a great feare Yet in Gods hand I pray thee let me fall For his mercies are over his works all Then JEHOVAH in wrath to strike began And kill'd of Isra'l seventy thousand men To Jerusalem then the Angel went With sword in hand but God he did repent Him of the evill Th' Angel he did command To sheath his sword and so to stay hâ—s hand Then Gad from God to David thus did say Reare up an Altar to the Lord this day Let this Altar be set for JEHOVAH Where is the treshing floore of Araunah Then David as JEHOVAH did command Did buy the floore and in Araunahs hand He laid thirty shekels silver for price And there to God offred his sacrifice When this was done and David was wax'd old Absaloms brother ADONIjAH bold Helped by JOAB and ABIATHAR In his great pride made a most fearefull jarre A goodly man he was and faire in face But proud in Sprit a man of litle grace David him spilt he would not him displease Him to reprove at all times he did cease Puft up by Joab in vaine aspâ—ring He thought no more but surely to be King After David these three Nathan Zadok Benaiah for Solomon undertooke With Bathshebah David without delay Declard who should Israels Scepter sway After his death The man who shall alone Said he be King is my son Solomon When time drew nigh that good David should die He Solomon charged most carefully I go said he the way of all the earth I must shortly walk in the path of death Be strong therefore and shew thy self a man And keep the charge of the Lord as thou can Walk in his wayes keep his commandements His testimonies and al 's his judgements So shalt thou prosper both by sea and land All shall go well that thou shalt take in hand Remember well how Joab greeved me When he slew Abner with great treacherie And Amasa and how the blood of war He shed in peace when no cause was of jar And how he put the blood of Abner sweet In the vile shooes that were upon his feet I know thou canst thy self wisely behave Let not his hoare-head in peace go to grave Unto Barzillais sons shew great kindnesse For they were kind to me in my distresse Behold with thee the cursed Shimei Who curst me sore in my calamitie To him humbled I sware by the great Lord I will not put thee to death with the sword Because he was so fierce in my distresse Therefore take heede thou hold him not guiltlesse I know thou canst thy self wisely behave His hoary-head with blood bring to the grave So David with his fathers sleept softly And after buri'd was in his city The Use By David learne what after sin remaines The fruits of sin are sorrowes and great paines By David learne if thou hast gone astray To turne to God and walk in the right way By David learne to teach your children deare How in their time they should live in GODS feare Too many speak of Davids filthie fall To shroud their sins and so to make them small Too many to their vile lusts licence give As though to rot were the way to revieve But few there be that weigh well in their heart How greatly David for his sins did smart SOLOMON Peaceable who is at peace with all men GODS Sprit begins to move my pen anone To draw some lines concerning Solomon A worthy man most excellent in fame At home abroad from peace he had his name Good Nathan sent from the great JEHOVAH Changed
Gods Word did direct His heart with God the Lord was not perfect When warre arose he unto the Lord sought ' Gainst Jeroboam he a Battell fought Foure hundred thousand were with Abijah Eight hundred thousand were against Judah For Jeroboam In the fields were then An armie of twelve hundred thousand men Then Abijah standing on Zemaraim Which is a part of faire mount Ephraim VVith a loud voice cri'd unto Israel VVhy come ye foorth against me to Battell VVhat God hath join'd why go ye now to seveâ— For the whole land the Lord hath given for ever To Davids house without a let or halt This was made sure by Covenant of salt Yet Jeroboam Solomons servant Doth what he can to breake this Covenant Gathred unto him are men of Belial Who are novv come to provoke to Battell And novv ye think the Kingdome to vvithstand VVhich should remaine sure in Davids sons hand VVith you is a great multitude of men VVith golden Calves of false Jeroboam Have yee not cast out the Priests of the Lord That for vile gaine yee might with one accord Make unto you Priests that vvould take in hand To serve strange gods that vvere from other Lands But as for us the Lord vvith us vvill be VVho have vvith us the Priests sons of Levi VVho morne and even vvaite upon all service Enjoyn'd by GOD the dayly sacrifice VVe with our heart keep the charge of the Lord. But ye have him all left vvith one accord Behold hovv God is vvith us for Captaine His Priests vvith Trumpets to sound an alarme Against you VVherefore novv vvith one accord Conveene yee thus to fight against the Lord Leave off leave off proceed no more this vvay For your armie shall not prosper this day But Jeroboam free of feare and doubt Judahs armie did compasse all about When Judah saw them compass'd in Battell They with strong prayers cri'd to th' Eternall The Priests began with their Trumpets to sound Judah did shout Which made th' Echos rebound Then God arose to shew himself by might He Jeroboam put unto the flight The flight was fierce bloody was the Battell Five hundred thousand that day to Isra'l Were kill'd But Judah prevail'd by and by Because with faith they to the Lord did cry Thus Jeroboam curbed in his wayes Recov'red not strength in Abijahs dayes But Abijah wax'd more and more mighty With fourteene wives he begat sons twenty Because he was not perfect in his wayes Of his Kingdome the Lord shortned the dayes He in his wayes walked not uprightly Therefore his great pomp lasted but years three The Use Ill Kings from Thrones by a successive svvay Like chaffe by vvind shall soone be driven avvay 3. ASAH Healing BEhold a King most glorious like the Sun Whose end was good whose life was wâ— begun A man of health is he who strives to please The Lord and doth what is good in his eyes This worthy King with holy jealousie Brake downe the Altars of Idolatrie Set up for strange gods he the high places With groves cut downe and brake the images With great zeale he commanded all Judah To do the Law and turne unto Jovah Because the Lords Law he did not forget The Kingdome was long before him quiet At last ZERAH the Ethiopian Came with an host of a thousand thousand ASAH the King thus troubled very sore Conveen'd five hundred thousand and fourescore Thus fifteene hundred thousand men that day With fourscore thousand in Battell aray Were set Then Asah cri'd unto the Lord That in that strait his help he would afford Help us O Lord help us O Lord said he Thou canst well help with few or with many Against this host we now goe in thy name Make now our foes to turne their back with shame When God this heard he rose in anger hot And with his sword this huge armie he smot His wrath like waters wheesing out did foyle The proud Zerah then Judah got their spoile When this was done the Prophet Azariah Was sent from God for to meet King Asah God is vvith you said he vvhile ye vvith him His love with you most ready to confirme If yee forsake him he will forsake you now If yee seek him he will be found of you Be strong therefore Gods service much regard For God the Lord your good work shall rewaâ—d When Asa heard these words he tooke courage The idole gods he did destroy with rage From Ephraim Manasseh and Simeon Unto Asa many did flock anone Then with one minde they were glade and content To make with GOD the LORD a Covenant By God they sware in a most sol mne oath That man woman great small should die the death Who should refuse the living God to seek Who to his Saints is mercifull and meek Then all the people with their whole desire Did seeke the Lord as Asa did require They sware to God with shouting and Trumpets With singing voice and also with Cornets They seeking God beleev'd and did not doubt And he unto them gave rest round about When this was done this worthy King Asah From being Queene his mother Maachah Remov'd because vaine idols she did love She had set up an idole in a grove This idole he did cut and stamp upon With fire he burnt it at the brook Kidron When this was done Ba'sha King of Isra'l Did build Ramah to make Asah to fall But Asah quickly sent to Benhadad For help which in the Lords eyes did seeme bad For this doing the Prophet Hanani Him told that he had done most foolishly What hadst thou said he to doe with Syria To hire their help Did not the great Jovah Make thee subdue the Ethiopian host With the Lubims who in their pride did boâ—st Gods eyes throughout the earth run to and â—ro To manifest his great might so and so He is ready with great power to smite The foes of these who towards him perfite Are in their heart Because in this right far Thou hast failed hence foâ—th thou shalt have warre When Asa heard these words of Hanani A fierie wrath did kindle his furie Take this villaine said he this Bâ—lials son Now bind him fast and cast him in prison Moreover he some people in distresse Without mercy severely did oppresse In his old age diseased in his feet To Medecins to seeke he thought more meet Then to the Lord who health and happinesse Hath ready for his servants in distresse Though diverse faults bee seen in this mans wayes Yet with the Lord his heart was all his dayes Perfect as the first book of Kings doth tell Written by the scrib of God Eternell He sway'd the Scepter years one and fourtie Though Kings be gods yet as men they must die The Use Our brightest life is like the Moone with spot Where is the life that is without a blot 4. JEHOSHAPHAT The judgement of the Lord. NOw fill mine heart LORD with thy glowing flame Raise up my Spirit and verses in me
Thee will destroy for hateing his counsell Then to Joash King second from Jehu This Amaziah with great brags said now Come let us see each other in the face That we may fight for peace hath no more placâ— Then Joash scorned this Kings great follie As a Thistle a cartell to a tree Should send whose strength under a wilde beaâ— foot Is troden downe in top and al 's in root Lo thou hast smitten Seir Edoms great hoast Thus thy proud heart thee lifteth up to boast Abide at home cease from such vaine follie Why shouldst thou fall and al 's Judah with thee But Amaziah these words would not heare To go to Battell he would not forbeare It came of God most wise and most mighty Him to give ov'r unto his enemy â—ecause after his foes he had ov'rcome â—e sought after the idols of Edom. â—hus these two Kings did fight in good aray â—ut Amaziah was routed that day â—n that Battell he was taken alive â—or all his boast he was Joash captive â—his Joash spoil'd the house of great Jovah â—nd carried all unto Samariah â—ast Amaziah by conspiracie â—as slaine in Lachish with great felonnie The Use Though Kings be strong and in Battell mighty â—hey can not stand that love idolatry 9. UZZIA The strength of the Lord called also AZARIAH The help of the Lord. FRom help and strength this great King had his name For God by help and strength did spread his faâ— As long as he sincerely sought the Lord His greatest foes could not resist his sword God helped him against the Philistines Against th' Arabians and the Mehumins His name did spread to Egypt gloriously For he in God was strong exceedingly He fortifi'd Salem with towres and walls With great charges he digged many wells An armie of three hundred thousand men He did maintaine his countrey to defend But he made strong forgot Gods instruction His heart was puft up to his destruction For like a Priest by a fearfull offence He went to Temple for to burne incense But Azariah the Priest with courage Withstood the King in his folie and rage Cease cease said he cease from this great fence It is for Priests to offer Gods incense Goe out goe soone out of this sanctuary Dâ—shonour thou shalt have by this folly Then Uzzia a censer in his hand Took to burne incense ' gainst the Lords coâ—mand Then the great Lord him smote in the forehead With leprosie then all the Priests with speede Did thrust him out and he himself to flie Made hast because the Lord with leprosie Him smitten had for thus going astray He liv'd leprous untill his dying day All his lifetime to his great grief and smart He dwelt a leper privately apart The Use Let Kings heere learne in their pride and folly Not to meddle with Jovahs Sanctuary 10. JOTHAM Fatherlesse JOtham during his fathers leprosy Did in Judah as King the Scepter sway He gave his minde to do that which was right And pleasant in the great Eternells sight He builded much After in warre anone By force of armes he subdu'd strong Ammon He prospered well he was in vertues rare For he his wayes before God did prepare Twentie five yeeres he was when he began To reigne sixteene he did reigne in Salem Thus di'd Jotham of age one and fourty And buri'd was in Davids faire city The Use The King that would wisely his Scepter sway Before the Lord let him prepare his way 11 AHAZ Possessing THis vaine Ahaz who understood no right Did that which was most wicked in GOD sight He not regarding in heart th'Eternell Did walk in the ill wayes of Israel He images set up for Baalim Likewise in Hinnon incense was by him Burnt with his children in a fearfull fire To grieve GOD with Heathen he did conspire He was most bent unto idolatry On the high hils and under the green tree Because he did contemn the LORDS command The LORD him gave into his enemies hand The Syrians first after these of Isra'l Him overthrew thus fearfull was his fall Then valiant Pekah from the Syrian land Slew in Judah of men six score thousand Also Israel in a fearfull way Two hundred thousand captives took away Likewise Philistins with profane Edom Against the land in divers places come Thus the great GOD who to vengeance is slow For Ahaz sins brought Judahs kingdome low This wicked man when he was vexed sore With divilish spight did sin yet more and more The Scriptures plainly point at his trespasse While they thus say This is that King Ahaz This fool unto the false gods sacrificed Of Damascus which had him sore displeased Because said he the gods of Syria Hath helped them they shall be my Jovah The Temple doors he shut up in fury And gave himself to vile idolatry Both in Salem and also in Judah He set idols in contempt of Jovah Thus this ill man in wickednesse did die Therefore with Kings they would not him burie The Use Kings who their land staine with idolatry Shall often meet with wo and miserie 12. HEZEKIAH The strength of the LORD THis godly Son of most wicked Ahaz Did fear the LORD he most religious was This noble King a most worthy Divine In Judah land did reigne yeers twentie nine In his first yeer the doors of GODS house fair He opned and the breaches did repair The Priests and Levits which seem'd to him mâ— meet He together gath'red to the East street Hear me said he Now your selves sanctifie All filthinesse from th' holy place cary Our ill fathers have most vilely trespassed The divel them hath with wicked wiles coâ—â—passed They have forsaken God and gone astray Their faces from him they have turn'd away The Temple doors they have shut up about The clearest lamps of God they have put out Vnto the Lord they have burnt no incense They have not car'd what manner of offence They did to him therefore Gods heavy wrath Came on Judah treading that wicked path Because they scornd the Lords commandement â—o trouble hissing and astonishment â—e them deliv'red for hating his word â—ur dear fathers have fallen by the sword And which greatly augments our miserie â—ur sons daughters are in captivitie â—ow let us make a covenant I pray â—ith God the Lord that he may turn away â—rom his fierce wrath cast off all negligence â—or yee are set to serve and burn incense Then the Levits were gath'red carefully To cleanse GODS house from all impurity All th'uncleannesse within GODS house anone They cary'd out and cast it in Kidron When they had cleansed things of every sort To Hezekiah they made the report Then this good King in great zeal rose early And gath'red the Rulers of the city This good King and they all with one accord Went up in haste to the house of the LORD Divers offrings they offred to JOVAH For the kingdome the temple and Judah Levits with cymbals harps and psalterie The Priests with trumpets made sweet
Elisha came incontinent â—nd with Elijah he went as servant Then came Benhadad strong from Syria â—ith thirty two Kings ' gainst Samaria â—s messengers he unto Ahab King 〈◊〉 to the City sent with this saying â—us saith Benhadad who darre now repine Thy Silver Gold Wives Children all aâ— mine To him Ahab answ'red my Lord O King What hast thou said it is a true saying For I am thine and all that I can have Grant me friendship no other thing I crave When Benhadad these words of courtesie Did heare his heart was lifted up proudly His messenger he back againe then sent Unto Ahab with this commandement I will to morrow my strong servants send Who all thine house shall search from eâ— to end What in thine eyes is most pleasant that daâ— They in their hands shall carie all away Then Ahab spake his Elders with great griefâ— See how this man now seeketh a mischeefe My silver gold my wives children freely I offred to him who doth as ye see Then the elders with such words not contenâ— Said to Ahab beware to give consent Regard him not Then Ahab made report To the messengers in words of this sort What the King first desired it unto I soone yeelded but this I cannot doe When the messengers had made their report Unto Benhadad in words of thss sort â—hen Benhadad sent backe unto the King His servants soone with these words of threatning The gods do so to me and more also â—f for the people that with me shall go The dust of all Samarias Citie Shall now suffice for them handfulls to be Then Ahab answ'red tell yee now your King We will not yeeld for all his great threatning Let not him that girdeth on the harnesse So boast himself as free of all distresse When they report made of all this saying Benhadad with his Kings were then drinking â—nto his tent To his servants that day He said be now all in Battell aray When this was heard his strong men speedilie Did rank themselves against that fair Citie Behold anone a Prophet from the LORD Who did King Ahab comfort with this word Thus saith the Lord this host without delay 〈◊〉 will deliver in thine hand this day Though Benhadad now boast much of his sword â—hab shall know that I am God the Lord. Then Ahab said by whom shall this be done â—he man of God gave him this answere soone By the young men of good worthy Princes Who mighty are among the Provinces Then said Ahab tell me from th' Eternell Who shall among us order the Battell To that the Prophet shortly did reply Even thou who art the Lord of the city Then Ahab call'd the young men him unto Who were numbred two hundred thirtie two The host it self which Ahab did command In number all were but poor seven thousand When these brave men went to battelâ— noone Benhadad drunk was in his pavillion With thirtie two Kings who this most did thâ— How their bellies might be filled with drink Then the young men of the Princes that day Before the rest went first in their aray When Benhadad the King of Syria Heard that these men were from Samaria He said whether they be for peace or warre Take them alive but to slay them beware When this was said armie against armie Began to fight but Syria to flie Made hast That day poor Israel with few Benhadads great host bravely overthrew To King Ahab the Prophet came againe And said mark well my counsell not disdain â—or surely at the returne of the yeer â—enhadad will with a new armie stir Then Benhadads servants to him did say â—heir gods are gods of hills therefore now they â—e stronger then we let us in the plaine â—gainst them fight and they shall soone bee slaine Doe this al 's if thou wouldst prevaile this day â—ake heede and take these drunken Kings away â—nd put Captaines with order in their place 〈◊〉 shalt thou soone thy strongest foes deface Make up an armie like that which thou lost â—haret for charet horse for horse to post â—nd runne them downe in some field that is plaine â—hen shall we see their armie foil'd and slaine It came to passe at the turne of the yeere â—hat Benhadad to fill mens hearts with fear â—ame with an host of charets and of men â—nto Aphek against Isral's children â—ke little Kids Isra'l was in aray â—ut Syrians fill'd the countrey that day While all in order were fet for battell 〈◊〉 man of God came unto Israel And said GOD saith because the Syrâ— boast That GOD on hills can onely help your host It shall be seene that such words are but vâ— For as on hills so am I in the plaine For good successe this day I give my worâ— And yee shall all know that I am the LOâ— Then these two armies fill'd with coâ— much Did sev'n dayes one against another pitch In the seventh day they joined the Battell An hundred thousand that day by Isra'l Of Syrians were slaine the rest did flie Unto Aphek and there in that citie Upon twenty sev'n thousand men a wall Fell with great noise which killed great small Then Benhadad who durst no more abide Came to the citie for himselfe to hide In some chamber there his servants did say Our foes by force have much prevail'd day But vve have heard vvhich comfort tâ— brings That mercifull are all Israels Kings Let us quickly seeing there be such hopes â—ut on sackcloth and bind our heads vvith ropes â—nd go to Abab vvith humilitie â—eradventure that King vvill pardon thee As they had said so quickly in these hopes â—ey got sackcloth and bound their heads with ropes â—en to Ahab adorn'd with Majestie â—ey came with these signes of humilitie King said they let there be no more strife â—ore Benhadad from thee doth beg his life â—hat Said the King is your Master not dead â—ell him that he my brother is indeed 〈◊〉 bring him forth that novv I may him see â—d that he may in Charet ride vvith me Then Benhadad said to Ahab therefore 〈◊〉 thee the Cities I will now restore â—hich my stout father tooke from Israel 〈◊〉 thy brave Captaines to thee may well tell â—hen said Ahab this Covenant this day â—all betwixt us So he sent him away Then came a Prophet with his owne accord â—ho to his neighboure in words of the Lord â—id smite me soone I pray thee now smite me â—hat Said the man wherefore should I smite thee Because said he thou wouldst not now obey GODS voice by me a Lion shall thee slay So as the Prophet said it came to passe A Lion slew him for this his trespasse Then the Prophet another found quickly And as before said to him smite thou me Then he not slack quickly a weapon found And did him smite which made a bloody wounâ— Thus the Prophet sore wounded went away And waited on King Ahab by the way He thus disguisd with ashes on his face Did cry to
liveth what unto me Jovah 〈◊〉 his good Sprite at this time shall reveale â—hat from King Ahab I shall not conceale When he was come the King said so and so Micajah tell if we to Battell go â—all against Ramoth or shall we forbeare â—hat is thy minde Let me an answere heare Go and prosper said Micajah in scorne â—od in thine hand shall that people forlorne â—eliver now speake trueth I thee adjure â—id Ahab for I cannot scorne endure â—hen said Micajah the trueth I will tell â—pon the hills I saw all Israel As wandring sheepe that have not a sheepheard â—hen this I saw then the Lord to me said â—hese have no master this is mine advice â—hat every man goe to his house in peace â—ehold said Ahab to Josaphat King â—id I not rightly conjecture this thing â—hat this Micajah in his prophecie â—ould say no good in what concerneth me â—hen said Micajah heare now thou therefore 〈◊〉 the Lords Prophet yet will tell thee more 〈◊〉 saw the Lord sitting upon his Throne Before him there all heav'ns host came anone Then said the Lord who best among you all Can move Ahab for to goe up and fall At Ramoth One said this another that At last came foorth a spirit a reprobate Who stood before the mightie Lord and saiâ— I take in hand that I shall him perswade Then said the Lord unto that Spirit wherewiâ— With many lyes said he I will goe foorth And him deceive Goe foorth said GOâ— doe so Thou shalt perswade him and prevaile also But Zedekiah Son of Chenaanah Went neere and smote the cheeke of Micajah Which way said he the Sprite of God from me A Prophet went for to speake unto thee Then said Micajah for thy boast and pride The day shall come that thou thy selfe shalt hiâ— In inner chambers close Then said the King Take this Micajah and soone do this thing Put this fellow into some vile prison And feede him with bread of affliction And water al 's untill I come in peace From the Battell This well me now do please Said Micajah for if thou come safelie Frâ—m that Battell the Lord hath not by me â—ken at all This is most sure I tell â—rken O people and consider well â—o the King Ahab and Josaphat both â—th their great Armie went up to Ramoth â—n Ahab King resolved by advise â—he Battell he did him selfe disguise 〈◊〉 he had said unto Josaphat King 〈◊〉 on thy robes in time of the fighting â—he King of Syria had his thirtie two â—taines commanded saying so and so 〈◊〉 that ye fight neither with great nor small â—e onely with the King of Israel When the Captaines Josaphats rich clothing 〈◊〉 see they thought he had been Isra'ls King â—n they aside turned with all their might â—inst Josaphat with forces to fight â—hen King Josaphat with a mighty shout â—ong his foes in danger cried out â—en the Captaines in that bloody Battell 〈◊〉 that he was not the King of Isra'l â—y turned back and quickly went him fro â—eek Ahab who was their cheefest foe â—hen at a venture a man drew a bow 〈◊〉 hurt Ahab with a deadly arrow â—n said Ahab to him who his coch drave 〈◊〉 wounded if thou my life can save Delay no more with diligence make hast And carry me aside out of the host So Ahab died and in Samaria Was buried as the Prophet Micajah Before had told who it well understood They wash'd the coch the dogges did lick blood The Use Let Kings heer learne to shun ill company A Jezebel stain'd with idolatry Let Kings heere learne GODS Lawes foâ— regard Ahab did losse his Crowne for a vineyearâ— Let Kings heere learne GODS Micajah heare And not to base Placebos to give eare 8. AHAZIAH The possession of GOD. THis wicked son after Ahab was dead In wickednesse did unto him succeed He like his father did worship Baal And so provok'd the great God Eternal A few dayes after a great greif befell â—ng Ahaziah through a lattesse fell â—om an high chamber whereby he made sick â—om Ba'lzebub his life and health did seeke Then an Angel sent from the great Jovah â—id to his Prophet faithfull Elijah â—ise go up and the Kings servants meet â—d say unto them in these words most meet 〈◊〉 it not because that in all Isra'l â—ere is no GOD that thou go'st to Baal â—w therefore heare that which the LORD hath said â—ou shalt not therefore come downe from thy bed â—hen this message Elijah had imparted 〈◊〉 went his way and from these men departed Then messengers unto the King came back â—ho said unto them why are ye so slack 〈◊〉 to returne from the way I you sent â—om Ba'lzebub who onely can content 〈◊〉 troubled heart Then answer'd they the King 〈◊〉 man us met who sent us back saying 〈◊〉 tell your Prince who hath you foolishlie â—t to idoles wherein is no safetie â—it not because that in all Isra'l There is no God that thou go'st to Baal Now therefore heare what the Lord God 〈◊〉 said Thou shalt not therefore come downe from 〈◊〉 bed What man was he that came you up to meeâ— Said Ahaziah both troubled and sick He was said they a man old and hoary Who bade us turne and no longer tarry This hoary man who did us thus enjoine A leather girdle had about his loines The man that is clothed with that habite Is most surely Elijah the Tishbite Then did the King a Captaine of fiftie Send unto him sitting on an hill hie They said Thus saith the man that beares crowne Thou man of GOD see that thou soone câ— downe Elijah said if man of God I be Let fire come downe and thee and thy fiftie Consume and slay with these wordes fell fire Which did as good Elijah did desire Againe the King a Captaine with fiftie Sent to Elijah commanding quicklie â—r to come downe as had been said before â—ese words they spake to fright him more and more â—ey said Thus saith the man that beares the Crovvne â—ou man of GOD see that thou soone come dovvne Elijah said if man of God I be â—t fire comedowne and thee and thy fiftie â—nsume and slay with these words fell a fire â—hich did as good Elijah did desire He sent againe a Captaine of fifty â—ho came and at Elijahs feet humbly â—d supplicat that he his favour might â—nd that his life might be deare in his sight Then said th' Angel Elijah now go downe â—are not the face of him that beares the Crown â—en he arose and went unto the King â—nd said This is the mighty Lords saying 〈◊〉 as much as thou to Baalzebub â—st sent a disgrace on the LORD to rub â—erefore I tell thee what GOD unto me â—th said in wrath is it not certainly â—it not because that in all Isra'l â—ere is no GOD that thou unto Baal â—uld send Therefore from thy bed certainly Thou shalt not come downe but shalt surely Thus after two yeers that
Elishas feet â—â—e fell downe there and then began to weepe Then Gehazi came fast to thrust away â—he Shunamite in great distresse that day â—et her alone said Elisha behold â—reat grief of heart which GOD hath not me told She said did I desire a Son to have â—id I not say see thou me not deceive Then said Elisha unto Gehazi â—â—rd up thy loines and take my staffe quicklie â—e that no man thou salute by the way â—or do no thing that may procure delay â—hen thou art come with speede unto the place See that this staffe thou lay on the châ— face But the mother would not leave Elisha For so she sware by the great Jehovah Then she arose Elisha did follow All for to stint the Shunamits sorrow Then Gehazi the staffe upon the face Of the childe laide but during all that space Was neither voice nor yet any hearing Wherefore he turn'd to Elisha saying The childe is not awak'd there is no life Then Elisha came with that worthy wife And saw the childe laid dead upon his bed Then to them all the good Elisha said Retire your selfe and let me here alone Be with the childe then they retir'd anone Then Elisha with zeal began to pray He went up al 's and upon the childe lay He mouth to mouth and eyes to eyes did joiâ— And hands to hands and stretch'd himâ— upon The young dead childe there without hâ— harme Then the young childes flesh anone waâ— warme Then he return'd and walked to and fro And on the childe he stretched him also â—hen at the last the young childe seven times neesd 〈◊〉 eyes were opened and so was reviv'd 〈◊〉 calling for the Shunamite anone â—â—a said to her Take up thy Son â—â—n she went in and full of comforts sweet 〈◊〉 downe at the Prophet Elishas feet 〈◊〉 bow'd her self humbly unto the ground â—ling swetly for her great comforts found â—fter Elisha came unto Gilgal 〈◊〉 great dearth which troubled great and small 〈◊〉 on the great pot said he to make meat â—t the sons of the Prophets now may eat â—en the servant heard these Elishas words 〈◊〉 went and of a wild vine gathred gourds â—lap full which he shred into the pot 〈◊〉 at these herbs were that servant then knew not â—en the Prophets these herbs began to eat 〈◊〉 cryed out that death was in their meat 〈◊〉 Elisha bad his servants bring meal â—â—ch put in pot they did no more death feel â—hen Naaman great Captaine of the host Syria who would have spar'd no cost â—e helped of his vile leprosie â—rn'd of a maid who by captivitie 〈◊〉 in his house that in Samaria There was a Prophet called Elisha Who could him help and heale most perfectlie Of his disease of wofull leprosie Then said the King of Syria Go to I will now send a faire letter unto Jehoram King who guideth Israel Then the man went and tooke with him of alâ— Best things Of silver he tooke ten talents Six thousand pieces of gold of rayments Ten changes and so brought unto the King The Kings letter containing this saying Behold therewith I have sent unto thee Naaman to be heal'd of leprosie When King Jehoram heard this letter read He in amazement this utt'red and said Am I a God to kill or make alive Who in best Physick can so deeply dive Wherefore now see it is easie to tell That he now seekes against me a quarrell When Elisha had heard how that the King Had rent his clothes he sent him this saying Be not amaz'd let him now come to me And he shall know that a Prophet surelie Is in Isra'l So to Elishas doore Naaman came and stood there it before With horse charets in pompe and dignitie Then a servant Elisha sent quicklie With this message goe to the Jordan fair â—nd sev'n times wash thee in the water there â—o shall thy flesh againe come unto thee â—hou shalt be cleane and that most perfectly But Naaman was wroth and went away â—nd said Behold I thought the man this day â—ill surely come and pray unto his GOD And touch the place and cleanse me of this rod â—â—ana Pharpar right well I can tell â—e better rivers then these of Isra'l May I not wash in them and so be cleane â—us he turned and all in rage was seene Then came to him his servant thus saying My father if the Prophet some great thing â—d ordain'd thee wouldst thou not have it done 〈◊〉 much rather when thou thy health so soone â—y have by washing in water softlie â—sh and bee cleane hee saith no mere to thee â—t that wise word great Captaine Naaman â—waded was soone to wash in Jordan His flesh like childes flesh was then cleareâ— seene To be restord so Naaman was cleane Then he return'd with all his companie And stood before Elisha who did see What God had done then said Na'man behold I this in heart will all my lifetime hold And now I will heer in thy presence tell In all the earth but onely in Isra'l There is no GOD Therefore heare tâ— saying I pray thee take from me now a blessing What said Elisha no blessing I crave Of thy presents nothing I will receive And though he urged and request did make Yet Elisha his present would not take Then said Na'man Elisha I pray thee Let two Mules burdens of earth unto me Be given for hencefoorth I heere give mâ— word To quite all stranqe gods for to serve thâ— LORD In this thing the LORD thy servant pâ—don If I hencefoorth in the house of Rimmon Bow downe my selfe vvith my Master and King â—he LORD pardon thy servant in this thing Then said Elisha goe in peace this day Thus he departed and so went away But Gehazi did from his Master slide After the man he went to get a bribe 〈◊〉 will said he some earand to him make 〈◊〉 will now run and some what of him take When Naaman saw the man thus running He lighted downe and said What is the thing That thou desir'st What now Are all things well All well said he My Master bids thee tell Behold even now there be come unto me From Ephraim mount two young men most worthie Sons of the Prophets let them from thee have â—art of the present nothing more I crave But of good silver onely one talent And with that al 's two changes of raiment Then said Na'aman take two talents for one Them with the raiment he soone laid upon Two of his servants who bare them before Gehazi who fearing his Master sore Tooke the base bribe and sent them backe quicklie For so he thought to hide his villanie Then he went in and stood before his Lord Who said to him now tell me in a word Whence comest thou Tell me what thou hâ— done Thy servant went no whether said he soone Fy man said he went not mine heart wâ— thee When the man turn'd againe so speedilie From his charet to meet a craftie knave Who
builded they had both great wrath and fear â—herefore together they did all conspire 〈◊〉 go and fight against Salem in ire And so to stop the work Neverthelesse We unto God did pray in our distresse Likewise because of their malice and might We set a watch against them day and night And Judah said The strength of bearers all Is much decay'd and for to build the wall We are not able for such quantity Of rubbish as ye all may clearly see Then said our foes Before they be aware We shall them slay and so their work shall matâ— From all places the Jews came and us told Even unto ten-tymes that our foes most bold With great forces provided would not fail To come and us with fury to assail Therefore to save the people from these fears I armed men set with bows swords and spears Then to the Nobles and Rulers I said Of these vain men see yee be not afraid Remember God and armed in his sight For your brethren and sonnes and daughteâ— fight From that time was their counsell brought tâ— nought Half of my servants in the work well wrought The other half against dangers and fears Held bows and shields and habergeons spears And other weapons which they best could finde 〈◊〉 Judahs house the Rulers stood behinde 〈◊〉 with one hand the builders in that fear â—d work and with the other held the spear 〈◊〉 each builder had his sword by his side â—e Trumpeter hard by me did abide Then to the Nobles and the People all â—aid The work is great and on the wall â—e far asunder building do remain â—erefore in time let us wisely ordain â—at in what place yee shall the trumpet hear â—e then to us with all haste shall draw near â—e fear not mens malice or yet their might â—r God the Lord himself for us shall fight Thus we labour'd and half did hold the spear â—om morning light till the stars did appear â—kewise I told that I it best did judge â—at every one with his servant should lodge â—ithin Salem that they the day-time might â—bour and be to us a guard by night 〈◊〉 none of us all put off our cloathing 〈◊〉 night or day but only for washing Chap. 5. AMong the People then was a great cry Because they were opprest by usury Which made them lands and houses all morgagâ— Then Nehemiah in fury and rage Reprov'd the Nobles for such usury He against them set a great assembly He said We have redeemed our brethren The Jewes which were sold unto the Heathen And will you even sell your brethren Or shall They unto us be sold and made slaves all When they heard this they all did hold their peace They found nothing to answer in that place Unto them all I boldly said also It is not good truely what ye now do Yee should fear God and shun iniquities For the reproach of Heathen enemies I likewise might exact of them money Let us now all leave off this usury To them their lands vineyards houses this day And olive-yards wine corn restore I pray Then said they all even without any more Unto our brethren we will all restore Then did I call the Priests and made them sweâ— That they should do as they had promisde heer Moreover I thus shook my lap and spake So from his house GOD every man shall shake And from his labour that doth not truely Perform this point GOD shall him make empty â—en all said AMEN and did praise the Lord â—e people did according to their word Moreover I these twelve years governour Judah have not for my hard labour â—en the bread due to these of my place â—t that I should GODS work marre or disgrace â—t these who had governed before me 〈◊〉 the people were chargable truely â—ey taken had both Silver Wine and bread â—a their servants bare rule ov'r them indeed 〈◊〉 did not I such things I would not hear â—cause that I the Lord resolv'd to feare 〈◊〉 also I for all that did befall â—ntinu'd in the work of Salems wall 〈◊〉 my Table a hundred and fiftie 〈◊〉 of Isra'l with heathen ate daily â—ly an oxe with six sheep for my fare â—th dainty foules my servants did prepare â—ce in ten dayes all sorts of wine with speed â—ey brought to me yet I did not the bread 〈◊〉 the governour eat for in that age â—on the people was heavy bondage â—cording as I have done uprightly 〈◊〉 this people now my God think on mee Chap. 6. THen Sanballat Geshem and Tobiah With all our foes who were against Jovah Perceiving that GODS favour so did reach That we the wall had reared and no breach Was left therein they quickly sent to me That in the plaâ—ne of Ono speedilie I should them meet in some village thereby But they mischeefe intended by and by Then I to them did quickly send saying A great work now I am surely doing So that to come to you I have no leasure For why should GODS work cease while I gâ— thither After this sort four times they sent to me And as before I answer'd them quickly Then Sanballat his servant did command The fifth time with a letter in his hand To come to me it open bare this thing That I intended alwayes to be King And that I did Prophets to preach appoint That all Judah should me for King annoint Then unto him I sent with this saying Thou speakest false sure there is no such thing These things thou hast sure from no other paâ— But from thy self feigned by thine own heart â—uch false purpose these men did undertake â—hat at the worke they might our hands make weake â—ow therefore Lord we intreat thee at length â—o fortifie our hands now by thy strength I afterward came unto Shemajah â—ho seemed to direct me from Jovah â—et us said he In the Temple this day â—s hide for they will come us for to slay â—ven in our house therefore for this purpose â—ithin GODS house we will our selves inclose â—nd shut the doores of GODS house for they will 〈◊〉 the night season come thee for to kill While he these speaches crafty did conceive â—at the last began for to perceive â—hat GOD had not him sent but that indeed â—his Prophesie was bred in his owne head â—r Tobiah and Sanballat in ire â—r this ill purpose dâ—d him basely hire â—e to affright that I should so begin 〈◊〉 do and by this meanes to fall in sinne â—d that they might raise up an ill report â—d me reproach with all these of my sort 〈◊〉 God think on Tobiah Sanballat â—hose workes are evil and who do lewdly prat 〈◊〉 Noadia false the Prophetesse â—th other Prophets who in great distresse Would have me put now also think upon For their deceit let them all smart anone In twenty fifth day of the mon'th Elul In fifty two dayes finish'd was the wall When this was heard and seene by our en'mies They were all much cast downe in
their ownâ— eyes For they at last perceived well and thought That this whole work of our great GOD waâ— wrought Moreover then the Nobles of Judah Sent many letters unto Tobiah And he to them for in Judah forlorne And wicked men had then unto him sworne And he to them for he was son in law To Shechaniah the son of Arah Also his son then called Johanan Had mar'd the daughter of Meshullam Also they did his good deeds before me Report that I to wrath might kindled be What wordes I spake they made him them 〈◊〉 heare And Tobiah wrot for to cause me feare Chap. 7. IT came to passe that when fair Salems wall Was builded and the doores were set up all When the porters and all the singers sweet With Levits were appointed as was meet 〈◊〉 to my brother called Hanani Over Salem then gave the charge quicklie As also to the good Hananiah Who was faithfull and did feare great Jovah 〈◊〉 said unto them See they not forgot That Salems gates untill the Sun was hote Should not be op'ned and that carefully Both day and night they should watch the câ—ty Now the city indeed was large and great But the people were very few in it The houses al 's were not in every part Well builded then my GOD put in mine heart To gather all the Nobles for to see To reckon evry mans genealogie So we found out the Register anone Of them which first came out of Bayylon Habajahs sons were put from the Priest-hood Because that they by Register make good Could not to shew their right genealogie So they no more as Priests might reckned be The governour then said as was most meet That holy things these men no more should eate Till their stood up at last a faithfull Priest With Vrim and with Tummim on his breast At this time the people were lesse and more Fourty two thousand three hundred threescore Besides these were servants numbred rightly Seven thousand three hundred seven and thirty They had of men two hundred fourtie five And women who to sing sweetly did strive The Tirshatha at these occasions With others gave right large oblations So God forgetting their iniquities Made Israel to dwell in their cities Chap. 8. THen the people gathred from every tribe Came all unto Ezra the Priest and scribe Desireing h m that he would take in hand To read and make them for to understand The law of God So Ezra stood to read And to expound the people all gave head And that he might be better understood He stood upon a Pulpit made of wood Ezra there standing did blesse the Lord then The people all answ'red Amen Amen With lifted hands their heads they bowed dowâ— And dâ—d worship with faces to the ground Then Jeshuah Hodijah and Bani With others read Gods law book distinctly And gave the sence in each difficle thing And causd them to understand the reading Then Nehemiah the Tirshatha great With Ezra Levites who the people taught Said to the people Now with one accord Rejoice this day is holy to the Lord See that to mourne or weep yee stand in aw For all did weep when they did heare the Law Then said he to them as he thought most meet Goe eat the fat and also drinke the sweet Send portions let nothing now be spared To help these for whom nothing is prepared Be not now sory but rejoice at length For that the joy of the LORD is your strength Thus the Levits with their most holy skill So taught the people that they all were still Now hold your peace to them there they did say Neither be greev'd for holy is this day Then all the people as they thought most meet Did go away both for to drink and eat And to send portions and to make great mirth Because they had heard GODS word of great worth Then gathred were upon the second day Numbers to hear what Ezra scribe would say Both Priests Levits and people in a band Came unto Ezra for to understand The law of GOD then found they that Isra'l In booths of branches once a year should dwell And that they should with diligence the same In all the cities of the land proclame So all the people for to shun reproof As Ezra bade made booths upon the roof Of their houses and some made in the street Some in GODS court as they thought fit aâ— meet Since Joshuas dayes Isra'l had not done so Then all rejoic'd as was enjoin'd to do The people then forgetting their distresse Were filled all with joy and great gladnesse Then Ezra wise a worthy man indeed In the book of Gods law did dayly read Seven dayes the feast they keeped the eight daâ— Was most solemne that done they went away Chap. 9. NOw of this mon'th in the twentie fouâ— day The children of Isra'l without delay Assembled were with sackcloth and fasting And earth upon them a signe of mourning Then from all strangers Israels holy seed Did separate themselves and did indeed Confesse their sins before the Lord right soone And al 's the sins which their fathers had done â—hen as they were directed by GODS grace â—ith reverence they stood up in their place â—ne fourth part of the day they read Gods law â—nother fourth part they confessd with awe â—heir greevous sins and that with one accord â—hat done in feare they worshipped the Lord. Then on the staires the Levites by and by â—o standing up unto the Lord did cry â—hen other Levits said with one accord â—tand up and blesse for ever yee the Lord â—hy glorious name for ever blessed be â—hich is extoll'd above blessings most hie â—hou even thou art the mighty Lord alone â—y thee the Heav'ns the Heav'n of Heav'ns were done â—ith all their hoste the Earth and all that be â—herein with what doth swimme in the deep sea â—hou by thy power dost preserve them all â—hey at thy feet to worship thee downe fall Thou art the LORD who diddest choose Abram â—rom Vr of Calde whom thou Abraham Didst call after and foundest most surely His heart to be most faithfull before thee With him in mercy thou being contenâ— Made a most sure and solemne Covenant To give the land of wicked Cananits Of Hittits and the profane Perizzits And Ammorits and Girgashites by grace To these who should be of Abrahams race What Thou hast said Thou hast performed now For in all things most righteous art thou The troubles of our Fathers thou didst see And heardst their cry even hard by the 〈◊〉 sea And shewedst signes and wonders to Pharo And on his servants and people also For Thou didst knowe how that they deâ— proudly Against them so a Name Thou didst gâ— Thee As clearely it appeares to us this day Yea before Thee we must confesse aâ— say Thou before them the red sea didst divide So that the waves were walls on every side â—hey stood up straight as thou diddest command â—hat thy people might walke
to the Kings gate return'd But Haman hasted to his house and mourn'd Having his head cov'red in signe of greefe â—nd told Zeresh his wife and these who cheefe Were of his friends what did to him befall Then said to him his wife and al 's friends all â—f Mordecai be of the Jews a man â—efore whom thou hast fall'n doe what thou can Against him surely thou shalt not prevaile â—ut shalt before him still fall without faile While they did speake the chamberlens in haste Came to bring Haman unto Esthers feast Chap. 7. SO King and Haman came with Esther Queene The second day at me banquet of wine And the King unto Esther said againe What is thy request Now with me be plaine Conceale nothing to ask now boldly come I will it give though half of my kingdome Then Esther Queene answ'red and said thâ— thing If in thy sight I have favour O King Found let my life now be given unto me And my peoples for we ordain'd surelie To be destroy'd are and al 's to be slaine So that none of us alive should remaine If they us for bondmen and bond women Had sold we all had keeped silence then Although in so doing the enemie The Kings domage could not repaire rightly Then said the King unto Queene Esther soone Who Where is he who durst such thing presume For to atchieve Then said Esther quickly This is Haman our wicked enemie Then Haman when he had the matter seene Was sore afraide before the King and Queene Then from the banket wroth when this was done The King arose into his garden soone He went then Haman stood to make request To Esther for his life for fear opprest His heart because he saw that an evill thing Against him was determin'd by the King The King return'd found Haman on the bed Of Esther fall'n then to him the King said Will this Haman now also force my Queene Even in the house as heere now may be seene As the King this word had said With disgrace The men arose and cov'red Hamans face Then Harbonah a servant to the King To Ahasuerus said Think on this thing Behold this Haman made for Mordecai A gallowes high even of cubits fifty Whereon he minded to hang him anone Then said the King soone hang him thereupon So was Haman hang'd on a gallowes hie This did the Kings wrath fully pacifie Chap. 8. ON that day the great King Ahasuerus Unto Esther the Queene gave Hamans house Then Mordecai was brought unto the King And Ahasuerus gave to him his Ring Which he to Haman had giv'n in that day Ov'r Hamans house Esther set Mordecai Then Esther after Haman most perverse Was hang'd did sute his letters to reverse Which could not be but to Esther this thing Was granted by Ahasuerus the King Ev'n that the Jewes themselves might well defend ' Gainst the malice which their foes did intend So the posts rode and publish'd the decrees Permitting Jewes to kill their enemies Then Mordecai soone went out from the King Who unto him had given his royall Ring With apparell of blew and white and Crowne Of purest gold with garments hanging downe Of fine linnen and al 's of purple made Then the Citie of Shushan was most glade Then had the Jewes both light and great gladnesse With great honour and joyfull merrinesse In all places whether the Kings decree Did come the Jewes there had prosperitie With joy gladnesse a feast and a good day Then many people did without delay Even become Jews who then did much excell For of the Jews the fear upon them fell Chap. 9. IN the same day which Haman did ordaine That all the Jewes in each place should bee slaine The Jewes strengthned great forces did command So that none of their foes could them withstand Yea more the Rulers helped them right well Because the fear of Mordecai then fell Upon them all thus the Jews in a word Their enemies smot with stroke of the sword In the palace of Shushan the Jewes then Slew and destroyed there five hundred men With ten sons of Haman Parshandatha Dalphon Aspatha and al 's Poratha Aridatha Parsmashta Arisai Adalia Vaiezatha Aridai All these the Jews did slay they gave command That on the spoile they should not lay their hand Unto Esther the King he said againe The Jews in Shushan have destroy'd and slaine Five hundred men and Hamans sons ten Princes What have they done in the other Provinces But yet tell me what 's thy petition What would thou further and it shall be done Then said Esther If it shall please the King Unto the Jews in Shushan grant this thing To do the morrow also speedilie Even according unto this dayes decree And let Hamans ten sons now for his sake Be hang'd on the gallowes which he did make When this the King did heare he did anone Command right quickly it so to be done Then according unto the Kings decree Hamans tens Sons were hanged on a tree Thus all the Jewes that were then in Shushan Gath'red themselves together every man On the fourteenth day of Adar they then At Shushan quickly slew thee hundred men All these the Jewes did kill but gave command That on the spoile no man should lay his hand While other Jewes this matter understood Themselves they gath'red and right stoutly stood For their lives and had rest in all the land And of their foes slew seventie five thousand But as did others so likewise did they None of them all laide hands upon the prey The Jewes then the thirteenth and fourteenth day Did consecrate to feasting and to play But these at Shushan with these other two Did consecrate the fifteenth day also As a day of both feasting and gladnesse To praise the LORD who sav'd them from distresse The Jewes who in villages did remaine The fourteenth onely for this did ordaine To be a day of feasting and gladnesse Even a good day of shewing great kindnesse One to aâ—other this did Mordecai Write to the Jewes who gladly did obey To stablish this among them neere and far That the fourteenth and fifteenth of Adar Should yeerely keepe well in their memorie Because that they them from their enemie Did rest so that from sorrow that blacke day Was turned unto feasting and to play And sending portions one to other and Gifts to the poor who had nothing in hand Then with courage the Jewes did undertake As they had then begun there was no lake As Mordecai had written they did all Because Haman to put the Jewes in thrall Devised had to cast Pur or the lot That he them might destroy in anger hote But when Esther came to the King with speed Hamans device he ordain'd on his head For to returne and that he should quickly With his ten sons be hanged on a tree For this the Jewes after did not forbear Two dayes of Purim to keepe every yeer Yea that thereafter these two dayes indeed Should never perish from
them and their seed Then Esther the Queene and al 's Mordecay Dâ—d write agaâ—ne for keeping of that day For to confirme all that they did ordaine And that none of them should these dayes pâ—fane But should remember how GOD by and by Did see their fastings and al 's heard their cry These matters of Purim were by decree Confirm'd and written in a book clearelie Chap. 10. THen Ahasuerus the King did command To lay a tribut upon all the land And al 's upon the Isles of all the sea The like tribut he ordain'd for to be The noble acts of his â—reat power and might And Mordecais greatnesse in all mens sight Are they not written well with other things In Chronicles of all the Persian Kings Thus Mordecai exalted most highlie Unto the King was then next in degree â—e sought the wealth of his people indeed He likewise did speake peace to all his seed THE USE Heere learne how that the LORD in great mercie Rescues his Church in great adversitie When all things seeme to be destroy'd and gone Then doth the Lord for help rise up anone Though troubles great the Church greeve day by day GOD at the last can raise a Mordecai And though Haman who GODS folks death doth seal Be high the day on the top of the wheele And in his fury like a Boare doth range For to devore GOD can soone make a change In Princes hearts so that from high degree They shall such bring and hang them on a tree See here how GOD his Church can well defend And brings his foes unto a tragick end ADVOCATES ' LIBRARY EDINBURGH THE SECOND VOLUME OF THE GARDEN OF ZION Containing the Bookes of Job Proverbs Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs all in English Verse By M. ZACHARY BOYD. GLASGOW Printed by George Anderson 1644. To the most Royall Lady ELIZABETH His Majesties only Sister Princesse of Palatine of Rhine c. MADAME THE Tops of high Trees are mightily shaken by the windes while the lower branches suffer a more gentle wagging the thunder-bolts smiâ—e oftest upon the tops of â—eepest rocks while the base valleyes enjoy a â—lme in a gentle gale Your HIGHNES very eminent both in race and Place hath felt this in your time 〈◊〉 much as any other of the land As for the â—â—rticulars divers are big like Habbakuks viâ—n which was in so great letters Hab. 2.2 that men â—ight run and read the same I know none in Scripture except CHRIST â—ho hath beene more put to the proof of patience then holy Job his calamities were greâ—â— he was brought very low but GOD at last â—ter he had humbled him blessed his latter eâ—â— more than his beginning JOB 42.12 The Lord makâ— so with your Highnes when all those storâ— are past your end with the Righteous shall Peace PSAL. 37.37 Let it please your Highnes to take in part this little mite of my Muse with blessing and most fervent prayers to GOD soveraigne Comforts to cure all your Crosâ— and to wipe the teares of troubles from 〈◊〉 Eyes Your Comfort is like the Prophets â—sion Though it tarry waite for it becaâ— it will come HAB. 2.3 it will not tarry From GSASGOVV the 30. day of September 1644. Your HIGHNES most humble Servant M. ZACHARY BOYD. THE GARDEN OF ZION The Booke of JOB A Prayer O Son of GOD who from thy veines didst powre Vpon the Crosse that mostred crimson showre To save lost man me with thy Sprite inspire And in my breast kindle a sacred fire Conduct my pen cleanse both mine hand and heart That I thy Priest may safely touch thine Arke Teach me to tune the glory of thy Name How thou by Job did Sathan foully shame Though he with an insatiate furie fell Did go about him for to quaile and quell As thou favour to my Heroicks shew So for these Lyricks thy Graces renew JOB Sorrowfull or Hated INUZ a Man cald Jo there was both perfect and uâ— right Who feared GOD and dâ— eschew evill even with all hâ— might 2 And in that place where he did live in great prosperity By mariage were born to him seven sons and daughters three 3 His substance was seven thousand Sheep and Camels thousands three He also had five hundred yoke of Oxen most lusty Five hundred Shee-asses he had rich both in men and beast So that he was the greatest man of all those of the East 4 His sons did in their houses feast yea every one his day They cald their sisters there to eat and drink with them alway 5 It was so when their feasting dayes were gone about quickly Job did them sanctifie and rose up in morning early For each he offred sacrifice fearing his sons greatly That they had curs'd GOD in their hearts thus did good Job dayly 6 Now it befell upon a day when Angels in a throng Before GOD did present themselves Satan came them among 7 Then the LORD unto Satan said whence comes thou he anone From going to and fro on earth from walking up and down 8 Then the LORD unto Satan said Hast thou considred well My servant Job there 's none like him that on the earth doth dwell A perfect and an upright man like unto whom are few One that the mighty God doth feare and doth evil still eshew 9 Then Satan in his malice great to God this answere brought It is no wonder that so be doth Job feare God for nought 10 Hast thou not hedg'd him and his house where he may safe abide Hast thou not hedged all about he hath on every side Thou hast by thy grace infinite blest the work of his hand And his substance is mightily increased in the land 11 But now put foorth thy hand and touch what he hath in each place And he will most despitfully even curse thee to thy face 12 All that he hath is in thy power said God on him onely Lay not thine hand so Satan went out from the Lord quickly â—3 There was a day when his children who were indeed numbrous Were eating and wine drinking in their eldest brothers house â—4 At that time came a messenger unto good Job and said Th' oxen were plowing and th' asses were feeding them beside 15 The Sabeans have them all spoil'd thy servants they have slaine And I onely escaped have to tell to thee the same 16 While he yet spake another came and said most certainly The fire of the Almighty GOD is fall'n from the heav'ns hie It sheep and servants hath burnt up and they consumed be And I onely escaped am alone for to tell thee 17 While he yet speaking was there came another who did tell The Caldeans made out three bands and on the Camels fell Yea they them cari'd have away and thy servants have slaine And only I escaped have for to tell thee the same 18 While he thus spake another said Thy sons and daughters all Did eat and al 's drink wine into their eldest
knees 5 But now it is upon thee come thou faintest more and more It now thee toucheth in the quick and thou art troubled sore 6 This is thy fear and confidence which now is made to hop The uprightnesse of all thy wayes and even thy strongest hope Who ever perish'd innocent remember I thee pray O! where was ever the righteous man cut off in any way Even as I have seen surely they that plow iniquity â—nd sow the seed of wickednesse the same reape certainely They perish by the blast of GOD as by a bloody war â—nd by the breath of his nostriles they all consumed are 10 The roaring of the Lion and the voice of Lions fierce â—nd al 's of young Lions thee teeth are broken with disgrace 11 The old Lion doth perish for lack of his prey and food â—nd the stout Lions Whelps anone are scattred all abroad 12 A thing unto me by the Lord was brought most secretly little thereof by mine eare received was surely 13 In thoughts that come most strangely from the visions of the night When deep sleep falleth upon men depriv'd of sense or sight 14 A panick fear then came me on I then began to quake With this fear was a trembling which made all my bones to shake 15 In this meane time appear'd a sprite which passd my face before The haire of all my flesh stood up for I was troubled sore 16 It stood still there most stedfastly but what did then concerne The visage and the forme thereof I could not well discerne An image was before mine eyes there was a deep silence And I did clearly heare a voice speake these words in this sense 17 Shall any among mortall men more just then the Lord be Or shall a man whom GOD hath made yet be more pure then he 18 Behold in his servants most deare whom he with graces large Endewes he trusts not his Angels with folly he doth charge 19 How much lesse on all such that dwell in base houses of clay Whose ground is dust which crushed are before the moth alway 20 From morning to the evening they are certainly destroy'd They perish still without regard which they can not avoid 21 Doth not their great excellencie in them still go away And so without wisedome like fooles go to their dying day Chap. 5. CAll now if there be any that will surely answere thee To which of the Saints wilt thou turne thy selfe to justifie 2 For wrath from the Almighty God the foolish man doth kill And envie slayes the silly one without wisedome or skill 3 I have seene taking root anone the foolish without grace But in a moment suddenly I cursd his dwelling place 4 His children far from safety are they are crush'd in the gate There is none to deliver them before the judgement seat 5 Whose harv'st the hungry eateth up for their poor maintenance Even from the thornes the robber al 's devours their whole substance 6 Although affliction from the dust to come be not once found Neither do troubles great also even spring out of the ground 7 Yet poor man unto trouble great and fearfull miserie Is alwayes borne most like the sparks that still upward do flee 8 I unto the Almighty GOD would seek with all my heart And unto GOD would I commit my cause in every part 9 Which great things and unsearchable by his arme Almightie Doth work and things most marveilous which without number be 10 Who gracious upon the earth for watring giveth raine â—nd also water sends upon the fields of all the plaine 11 Hee in his wisedome sets on high men of most low degree â—hat those which mourne to safety may at last exalted be 12 The devices of crafty men he disappointeth wise â—o that their hands can not performe their wicked enterprise 13 He by his wisedome takes the wise their craftinesse among â—nd the counsell of froward men is cari'd all headlong 14 They in their course with darknesse meet in the dayes time of light And wandring in the noone day groop as in the darkest night 15 But he well saveth from the sword the poor of all the land And from their vile blasphemous mouth and from the mighties hand 16 So the most indigent and poor hath hope in misery And the great GOD doth stop the mouth of vile iniquity 17 Behold whom the Lord God corrects he sure is most happy Therefore the chastning not despise of him that 's Almighty 18 For he makes sore and bindeth up he woundeth but the hole He closeth up his hands againe do perfectly make whole 19 In troubles six by power great he shall deliver thee Yea in seven also by no evil thou shalt then touched be 20 In famine he shall thee redeeme from death and in a word In war he shall thee save even from the power of the sword 21 From the scourge of the wicked tongue thou safely hid shalt be Thou need'st not feare destruction when it comes suddenly 22 At famine and destruction thou safe shall laugh alway The raging beasts upon the earth thee shall not once afray 23 For with the stones of all the field thou in a league shalt be â—he beasts which in the field remaine shall be at peace with thee 24 Thou shalt know that thy Tabernacle shall alwayes be in peace Thy dwelling place thou visit shalt and from all sin shalt cease 25 Thou shalt know also that thy seed in all the land about â—hall be great and thine off spring as grasse that from earth doth sprout 26 Thou to thy grave at last shall come in a full age most like A shock of corne that commeth in in his season all ripe 27 Loe this we have search'd it is so That it well understood May be by thee now heare it well and know it for thy good Chap. 6. THen Job replyd Oh that my greef were even now throughly weigh'd And my suffrings together were all in a ballance laide For they should be of greater weight then the sand of the sea Therefore my wordes are swallow'd up that they no more should be 4 For of the great Almighty God the arrowes are in me The poison whereof doth my sprit drink up most speedily The fearfull terrours of the Lord against me every day Like squadrons in an army great set themselves in aray 5 The wilde Asse doth he lowdly bray if he hath grasse his fill Or lowes the Ox as in great greef if he hath fodder still 6 Unsavory things without relish who without salt can eat In whites of egges who can finde taste that they should be for meat 7 The things that in my plenty great my soul refusd to touch Are still now for my dainty meat while I for sorrow crouch 8 Oh that I might have my request and God would grant to me In his mercy the thing that I long dayly for to see 9 Even that it would now please the Lord me to destroy as dead â—nd that he
like shades we know not how 10 Shall they not in their wisedome great thee teach well by their art â—nd utter still most worthy words even out of their owne heart 11 Can the greene rush without the mire or moisture well up grow Or can the flag grow up and spring where waters do not flow 12 While it yet in his greenesse is and not cut downe alway Before all other herbs it doth even wither quite away 13 So are the paths of all these men that the Lord God forget So of all hypocrits the hope shall perish without let 14 Whose vaine yea and most foolish hope shall be cut off quicklie Whos 's idle and unconstant trust like spiders webs shall be 15 He shall then leane upon his house but it shall not stand sure He shall with both hands hold it fast but it shall not indure 16 He is most greene before the Sun his branches all about In his faire Gardens pleasantly with buds and bloomes shoot out 17 His rootes about the heap are wrapt and of stones see the place By force of their owne moisture they through rubbish have increase 18 If he destroy him from his place then shall it him deny I with mine eyes have not thee seene shall it say by and by 19 Behold of his way this the joy from such things still doth flow â—ut of the earth even surely heere shall others lately grow 20 Behold a good and perfect man God will not cast away either will he in mercy help the evill doers alway 21 Till he with laughing from great joy thy mouth in mercy fill â—nd like wise satisfie thy lips with great rejoicing still 22 They that thee hate with wicked hearts with shame shall clothed be â—he place where wicked men do dwell shall come to nought surelie Chap. 9. THen holy Job answ'red and said this to be truth I see But how should man who is perverse with God thus righteous be If he in rigour and in wrath with him would once contend can not answere him unto one point of a thousand 4 In heart he is wise and in strength is most mighty indeed Who ' gainst him hardned hath himselfe and after hath come speed 5 Which greatest mountaines doth remove and they know not surely Which overturns them in his wrath so that they cease to be 6 Which shakes the earth out of her place most like a rolling ball And the strong pillars makes thereof for feare to tremble all 7 Which by his power infinite commandeth the bright sunne So that at morne he riseth not he seales the starres anone 8 Which by his mighty arme alone doth spread out pleasantly The azurd heav'ns and treads upon the great waves of the sea 9 Which Arcturus and Orion that raging stormy youth Makes with the Plaiades and there faire chambers of the south 10 Which doth by his Almighty hand great things past finding out Yea and great wonders numberlesse in all the world about 11 Lo he goes by me so that him I by no meanes can see He doth passe on also but well hee 's not perceiv'd by me 12 Behold he takes away who can him hinder Who also Will unto him this boldly say What mindes thou now to doe 13 His anger God will not withdraw which makes his foes to droupe The proudest helpers that can come must under him all stoup 14 How much lesse by my wisedome small him answere well shall I To chuse my words out and with him the strongest reasons try 15 Whom though I were most righteous yet answere would not I But I would supplication make to my judge by and by 16 If I had call'd and he had given to me an answere choice Yet would I not beleev'd that he had hearkned to my voice 17 For with a temptest rageing sore he fiercely breaketh me And al 's my wounds without a cause he doth still multiplie 18 He will not suffer me my breath to take in great distresse But in his furious rageing wrath me fills with bitternesse 19 If I do speake of force and strength lo he is strong indeed And if of judgemâ—nt who shall set for me a time to plead 20 Mine owne mouth sure shall me condemneâ—d if I me justifie If I pleade perfect he me will prove most perverse to be 21 Though I were perfect yet I not would in a way unwise My soul know for to justifie my life I would despise 22 This is one thing therefore I it said in my great annoy The â—erfect and the wicked man GOD doth alike destroy 23 If that the scourge most suddenly men on the earth doth stay 〈◊〉 trials of the innocent he will laugh sport and play The earth is giv'n unto the hand of these that wicked be â—e judges faces there he cov'rs if not where who is he Now swifter then a post my dayes as well is understood â—ey suddenly doe flee away and so they see no good As swiftest ships before the winde they passed are away â—d as the Eagle in the aire that hasteth to her prey If I say I will my complaint forget that I may sport â—ill leave of my heavinesse and so my selfe comfort I of my sorrowes am afraid with griefe my heart is spent now that thou in judgement wilt not hold me innocent If I be wicked Why doe I then labour thuâ— in vaâ—ne If with snow water I me wash and make my hands most cleane 31 Yet shalt thou in the ditch me plunge and all my cleannesse marre And mine owne clothes me so defil'd shall surely me abhorre 32 For as I am hee 's not a man that I incontinent Should answere him and we should come together in judgement 33 Nor any dayes man yet there is betwixt us to command That might by his authoritie upon us lay his hand 34 Let him in his great mercy take his rod away from me And let not his most dreadfull feare me greatly terrifie 35 Then would I with great boldnesse and not feare him also But oh in this most troublous tyme it is not with me so Chap. 10. MY soul of my life weary is on me I my complaint Will leave I will in bitternesse speak of my soul all shent I boldly will say unto GOD See thou condemne not me â—ew me wherefore thou dost contend with me so bitterly Is it good that thou should'st oppresse and the work of thine hands â—espise And on the counsell shine of the most wicked bands Are thine eyes flesh or seest thou as a man on earth doth see Are thy dayes as the dayes of man or yeares as mans dayes be That after mine iniquitie and sin thou dost enquire Thou knowst that I not wicked am who can save from thine ire Thine hands have made and fashion'd me in all parts for the joy â—f these who were my parents deare yet thou dost me destroy â—emember now I thee beseech that thou me as thou canst â—f clay hast made and wilt thou now bring me againe
sell 20 The wicked man doth all his dayes travell with paine not good To the oppressour of his yeares the number is well hid 21 In his years is a dreadfull sound in his prosperity The destroyer shall surely come upon him suddenly No meanes can make him to beleeve that he out of daâ—knesse Shall once returne the sword it waits for him in great distresse 23 For bread he wandreth saying thus Where is it in the land He knowes that the day of darknesse is ready at his hand 24 With trouble he shall be afraid and with much anguish so Gainst him they shall prevaile as Kings that unto battell goe 25 For ' gainst the God of heav'n above he stretcheth out his hand And ' gainst th' Almighty he himself doth strengthen in the land 26 He with a dâ—sp'rat violence upon the LORD doth run Even on his neck the bosses thick of his bucklers upon 27 Because his face he covreth wel with fatnesse even so that He collops maketh on his flanks which are both great and fat 28 He dwells in cities desolat and where no man can stay In houses ready to become great heaps of stone and clay 29 He impovrish'd all his substance shall not continue long His faâ—re and large estate he shall not on the earth prolong 30 From darknesse he shall not depart the flame shall soone up dry His branches surely by his breath he shall go soone away 31 Let not him trust in vanitie who being voide of sense Deceived is for vanitie shall be his recompense 32 Before his time it shall be cut his branch shall not be greene 33 As th' Olive he â—hall cast his flowre as unripe grapes the vine 34 For multitudes of hypocrites sure desolate shall be And fire shall soone consume the tent of all base briberie 35 They mischief in their heart conceive and bring foorth with much guile Great vanity their belly doth prepare deceit the while Chap. 16. THen Job anone him answerd thus 2 I have heard how befall Many such thinâ—s most naughty now comforters are yee all 3. Shall words of winde and vanitie at last have not an end What is this that imboldens thee such answers to intend 4 I could well speak if your souls were even in this my souls stead Against you I could heap up words and shake at you mine head 5 I with my mouth would strengthen you for your aid and releef The moving also of my lips should well asswage your grief 6 Though I do speak my grief is not asswadged any way And though in silence I forbear what am I easde thereby But now He hath me weary made in great perplexitie In wrath thou hast made desolate even all my company 8 With wrinkles as a witnesse thou hast fild me in disgrace My leannesse in me rising up beares witnesse to my face 9 He that me hates in wrath me tares his teeth still gnashing be Upon me this my cruell fo sharpneth his eyes on me 10 They gaped have they smitten al 's have me upon the cheek With great reproch they gathered were against me calme and meek 11 GOD in wrath hath delivered me to the ungodly band And of the wicked hath me turn'd ev'n over in their hands 12 I was at ease asunder he hath broke me by the neck He hath me ta'en and shaken sore and set me for his marke 13 His archers do me compasse round my reines asunder all He cleaves and doth not spare he powres out on the ground my gall 14 With breach upon breach at all times he breakes me all along He fiercely doth upon me run most like a gyant strong 15 I sackcloth on my skin have sowd which makes my heart to burst The horne of all my strength I have defiled in the dust 16 Great weeping in my troubles sore my face defiled hath And on mine eye-lids still abides the shadow dark of death 17 This is not for iniquitie wrought by hands all impure For I take head to all my wayes my prayer it is pure 18 O earth if I thus guilty be then cov'r thou not my blood â—et not my cry come unto thee for to be understood 19 Now also thâ—s I know right well behold my WITNES true Dwells in the heav'ns and my RECORD on high himself doth shew 20 My friends in mine affliction great me all do mock and scorne â—ut unto God mine eye powres out hudge teares both even and morne 21 O that one might with God on earth for men thus plainly plead â—s one that pleads for one that is his neighbour good indeed 22 When some few years upon the earth are quickly come and gone â—hen at last shall I goe the way whence I shall not returne Chap. 17. COrrupted is my breath my dayes extinct are certainely â—he graves also are now prepard and ready made for me 2 Are there not proud and wicked men that at me mock their fill In such provoking vaine doth not mine eye continue still 3 Lay downe a little put me now in surety well with thee Who is he among mortall men that will strike hands with me 4 For thou from understanding good hast hid their heart thou shalt Them not according to their mind to dignitie exalt 5 He that unto his dearest friends vaine flattery can speak Of his children the eyes shall faile when they in want shall seek 6 He as of babbling people vaine a by-word hath set me And to my foes in former times a tabret made to be 7 By reason of my sorrow great mine eye is dimme also My members as a shadow are all fill'd with greef and wo. 8 Men upright shall astonied be at this and which is meet The innocent himself shall stirre against the hypocrite 9 He that is given to righteousnesse shall al 's hold on his way And he that hath cleane hands shall be made stronger every day 10 But as for you all foolish men do ye returne and now Come for I cannot finde at all one that is wise with you 11 My dayes in vanitie are past for which I greatly smart My purposes are broken off even the thoughts of mine heart 12 My day of joy they changed have into the greef of night 13 Because of such a darknesse great they have made short my light 14 I have unto corruption said and to the wormes that crowle My father and my mother you and sister will I call 15 And where is now my hope As for my hope who shall it see 16 They to the pit shall go when in the dust we resting be Chap. 14 THen Bildad the Shuhite did say How long now will it be 2 Ere you end all your words Mark well and after speake will we 3 Wherefore are we as brutish beasts thus counted all the while And still reputed in your sight as naughty men and vile 4 In anger hote he tears himself shall the earth with disgâ—ace Be left for thee And shall the rock remov'd be from its
say I have sinn'd grievously And al 's the right perverted have but did no profit see 28 He from the pit his soul will save his life shall see the light 29 Lo all these things the Lord with man workes often by his might 30 To bring back from the pit his soule for to enlightned be 31 Marke well O Job heare hold thy peace and I will speake to thee 32 If thou canst speak me answere for I would thee justifie 33 If not me hear and hold thy peace and I will now teach thee Chap. 34. YET Elihu still speaking said 2 Ye wise men sage and grave Now hear my words give ear to me all yee that knowledge have 3 For mans ear well all words doth try as the mouth tasteth food 4 Let us choose judgement unto us and let us know what 's good 5 For Job hath said most foolishly I righteous am alway And GOD the good right of my cause hath taken clean away 6 Should I against my right once lye he with a curelesse wound Hath striken me and yet for that no crime at all is found 7 What man in all the earth like Job himself so overthinks Who wilfully void of all sense great scorn as water drinks 8 Which is companion unto these that work iniquitie And in his carriage walketh with men that most wicked be 9 For he hath said it profits not a man to be upright That he with the Almighty GOD should still himself delight 10 Therefore ye wise men hearken now all wickednesse far be From GOD and from th' Almighty that he do iniquitie 11 Eor he the work of every man most justly will repay And shall cause every man to find according to his way 12 Yea surely GOD not wickedly will do in whole or part Nor yet will the Almighty once his judgement wise pervert 13 Who ov'r the earth hath unto him the weighty charge imposd And who but he by his great power the world all hath disposd 14 If he upon man set his heart in fury and in wrath If he shall gather to himselfe his sprite and al 's his breath 15 All flesh that dwells upon the earth together perish must And mortall man shall turne againe unto his former dust 15 If thou now understanding hast heare and hearken to me 17 Shall wicked rule and shall the just condemned be by thee 18 Beseems it to say to a King by way of great disdaine Thou wicked art to Princes al 's yee all are most profaine 19 Then how much lesse to him that can not Princes proud endure And who in justice not regards the rich more then the poor For they indeed are all alike the work even of his hands And therefore that which is for both he wisely still commands 20 They soone shall die the people shall be vex'd at midnight and The mighty men shall taken be away without a hand 21 For on mans wayes his eyes are still his going he doth see 22 The shadows dark can not these hide that work iniquitie 23 For he more then the right on man will not lay with his rod That he in judgement enter should with the Almighty GOD. 24 By multitudes he strongly shall in pieces break the great And pull them down and in their stead most quickly others set 25 Therefore he knoweth well their works and he them in the night Doth overturne so that they are destroyed out of sight 26 He strikes the wicked openly because that they did swerve And would not any of his wayes with conscience well observe 28 So that unto him of the poor they cause soone come the cry And he the cryes of troubled men doth hear still by and by 29 When quietnesse he gives to man who then dar be so bold To grieve him When he hides his face who can him then behold Whether against a nation all It be done publickly Or onely it against a man be done most privatly 30 That the most wicked hypocrite should not the Scepter sway Lest that the people foolishly ensnared be alway 31 It surely meet is to be said unto the LORD therefore I chastisement have borne offend I will not any more 32 That which I see not teach thou me that I hence may refraine If I have done iniquity I will not doe 't againe 33 Should it be after thine owne mind whether that thou doth chuse He will it surely recompence or whether thou refuse And not I I may well affirme even whether lesse or more What dost thou know most perfectly see thou it speak therefore 34 Let men of understanding good unto me plainely tell And let him hearken who alwayes in wisedome doth excell 35 Without knowledge Job spoken hath and that most foolishly Without all wisedome were his words as all may hear and see 36 That Job be tri'd unto the end this is my cheefe desire Because that for most wicked men his answers did conspire 37 Eor he to sin rebellion ads even while he feeles the rod He claps his hands and multiplies his words against the Lord. Chap. 35. YEt Elihu moreover said 2 Think'st thou this to be right That thou dost say my righteousnesse then God appeares more bright 3 For thou saidst what advantage will it unto thee now be And profit what shall I then have if from sin I be free 4 To thee and thy companions now this answere make will I 5 Look to the heavens see and behold the clouds high in the sky 6 What do'st thou vaine man him against if thou be given to sin If thou transgressions multiply what dost thou unto him 7 If thou be righteous in thy wayes what to him dost thou give Or from thine hand what what doth he at any time receive 8 Thy wickednesse may hurt a man that is like unto thee Thy righteousnesse to sons of men may alwayes helpfull be 9 Because of great oppressions they do make th' oppressed cry By reason of the mighties armes they cry out by and by 10 But none among them all doth say where is the GOD of might My maker who most graciously gives songs even in the night 11 Who teacheth us most carefully and hath us wisedome given More thâ—n to all the beasts on earth or yet the foules of heaven 12 There they do cry but none at all gives eare or yet takes head Because of ill men who in pride most wickedly exceed 13 Most surely foolish vanitie by God shall not be heard The almighty who is above sure will it not regard 14 Though thou say thou shalt not him see yet he is alwayes just Therefore see that with all thine heart thou alwayes in him trust 15 But now because it is not so God in his anger hot Hath visited yet in great strait poor Job this knoweth not 16 Therefore doth Job most foolishly open his mouth in vaine Without knowledge he multiplies words while he doth complaine Chap. 36. ELihu yet proceeding said a little suffer me 2 And
Unicorne with his band bind straitlie In furrow or the valleis will he harrow after thee 11 Wilt thou of him presume alwayes because great is his strength Or wilt thou to him in this thought thy labour leave at length 12 Wilt thou beleeve him that he will bring home to thee thy seed And it together to thy barne will bring home with all speed 13 Gave thou the goodly wings unto the Peacoks that are fair Or wings and feathers of great worth unto the Ostrich rare 14 Who layes her egges and leaves them in the earth as in great trust In stead of hatching with her wings she warmes them in the dust 15 That feet of beasts may crush them all of that she makes no reck Or that the wild beasts running there them may in peeces breake 16 She hardned is against her young not fearing they be slaine As though they were not hers no feare her labour is in vain 17 Because GOD hath deprived her of all wisdome of heart Nor yet he understanding will unto her once impart 18 Yet with her wings and feete also she doth so nimby skip That she the horse and rider both is able to out stripe 19 Hast thou given also to the horse his strength that 's full of wonder Or hast thou clothed all his neck with a most fearfull thunder 20 Canst thou him as a Grashopper affright well in his way Of his nostrils the glory great is terrible alway 31 He in the valley proudly pawes and glorys in his strength He goes most boldly on to meet the armed man at length 22 He mocks at feare al 's he is not affrighted by a word He is not mov'd for to turne back even from the bloody sword 23 The quiver ratleth with great din against him in the field The gl ttring speare doth al 's appeare there likewise is the shield 25 With fiercenesse and most furious rage he swalowes up the ground He is so fierce he not beleevs that its the trumpets sound 25 Amongst the trumpets with Ha Ha! he chearefully doth laugh For he the battell long desir'd then smelleth a farre off He heares the thunder joyfully of captaines that doe cry And likewise of the souldiers fierce the shouting by and by 26 Doe Hawkes flie by thy wisedome and their wings stretch to the south 27 Mounts th' Eagle up at thy command and makes her nest on high 28 She still abides upon the rock and on the ragged cliff The craggie places of the rocks which are both steepe and stiffe 29 From thence she clearely seeks her prey even wlth a courage bold And her bright eyes that are most quick a farre off doe behold 30 Her young ones also greedilie them selves for to maintaine Doe suck up blood and there is she where lying are the slaine Chap. 40. MOreover yet GOD said to Job 2 Shall he that doth contend With GOD him teach he that reproves let him answere in end 3 Then answer'd Job the LORD and said 4 Behold what shall I say I am most vâ—le upon my mouth my hand now will I lay 5 Once have I spoken but I will not answere thee indeede Yea twise alas but surely I no further will proceed 6 Then the Lord answ'red unto Job after his speach was laid Yea out of the whirlewind he spake and thus to him he said 7 Gird up thy loines now like a man I will demand of thee And thou who art so full of wit declare now unto me 8 Wilt thou my judgement disanull and condemne wilt thou me That thou in all thy words and deeds most righteous may be 9 Hast thou poor man a mighty arme which is like unto mine Or canst thou thunder as I doe even with a voice divine 10 With Majestie most excellent now deck thy selfe the day With glory and with beautie al 's see thou thy selfe aray 11 The rage of wrath cast thou abroad as in a high alarme And when thou seest a man that 's proud abase him with thine arme 12 Look on the proud man and him soon bring low with great disgrace And quickly with thy foot tread down the wicked in their place 13 In dust them hide and also binde their faces in the grave 14 Then will I say that thy right hand is able thee to save 15 Behold now and consider well the Behemoth which I Made with thee he doth eat the grasse as oxen by and by 16 Loe now his great and mighty strength is in his loines surely And his force in the navill is even of his big belly 17 His mighty taile he whisks about as stiffe as any Cedar The sinewes of his stones also are wrapped altogether 18 The bones of his great bodie are as pieces strong or brasse His bones are like the yron barres they in great strength surpasse 19 He is the Cheef and Master-piece of the almighty LORD He that him made can when he please even kill him with his sword 20 Surely the mountaines foorth his food do bring him every day Where all the beasts in open fields most wantonly do play 21 He under the fair shady trees lies safely in his dens In the close covert of the reeds among the pleasant fens 22 The shadows of the branches green do ov'r his body passe The willowes of the running brook on all sides him compasse 23 Behold a river without hast with his wide throat he drinks That he the Jordan can draw up into his mouth he thinks 24 He doth it take even with his eyes which seeme to be most fierce He with his nose through strongest snares most easily can pierce Chap. 41. CAnst thou with strong hookes well draw oâ— the great Leviathan Or draw him by the tongue with cords out of the Ocean 2 Canst thou an hooke put in his nose and make him stand in aw Or canst thou with a pricking thorne him bore even through the jaw 3 Will he to thee much prayer make or speak soft words to thee 4 Or with thee make a Covenant sure or yet thy servant be 5 Wilt thou with him as with a bird begin to sport and play Or wilt thou for thy maidens al 's him bind by night or day 6 Shall the companions of his flesh a banket rich prepare Shall they his great and lusty joints among the merchands share 7 Canst thou his skin that is most thick with barbed yrons fill Or his great head with sharp fish speares to pierce hast thou the skill 8 Lay hands on him remember well the battell very sore If this thou do with him thou shalt not meddle any more 9 Behold his hope that would him kill is altogether vaine For at his sight men are cast down and can not rise again 10 None is so fierce as to be bold to stirre him with his hand Who then is able by his power before me for to stand 11 Who hath prevented me that I his debter should repay What under is the cope of Heaven is surely mine
And doth forget the Covenant all of her great GOD above 18 For her most vile house doth incline unto the doores of death And to the dead all slaine by sinne directly is her path 19 None of these all returne againe who foolishly are bold To go to her nor of the paths of life doe they take hold 20 That thou most constantly may walk with good men in the way And of the righteous keep the paths and feare to goe astray 21 For the upright shall dwell in lands which shall thee well maintain And these that be perfect in heart shall still therein remaine 22 But wicked men shall be cut off from all the earth about And the transgressours of GODS law shall be all rooted out Chap. 3. My deare son looke that thou my law do in no way forget But see that my commandments all thou keep with all thine heart 2 For length of dayes they shall to thee adde with a happy life And Peace and Plenty wonderfull far from debate and strife 3 Let not Mercy and Truth forsake thee binde them to thy neck Write them upon the table of thine heart which they shall deck 4 So shalt thou most sweet favour finde and an excellent light Of understanding good and that both in GOD and mans sight 5 Trust in thee LORD with all thine heart well purged and made cleane And unto thine owne wisdome see that in no way thou leane 6 In all thy wayes acknowledge him who shall thee still protect And thy paths through all dangers he shall safely all direct 7 Be thou not wise in thine own eyes take heed unto thine heart The mighty Lord see that thou fear and from all ill depart 8 It shall be to thy navill health and more then that alone It wattring and moistning shall be even marrow to thy bone 9 With thy substance honour the Lord even whether more or lesse And with the first and rarest fruits of all thy blest increase 10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty of corne most fine Thy presses al 's abundantly shall burst out with new wine 11 My son the chastening of the Lord see that thou not despise Nor yet of his correction good be weary any wayes 12 For whom the Lord loves he corrects as he it thinketh right Even as a father doth his son in whom is his delight 13 Most happy is the man that doth Gods heavenly wisedome find And he that understanding good gets for to cleare his mind 14 For the rich merchandise thereof is better manifold Then silver and the gaine thereof then is the finest gold 15 She then Rubies more precious is which high esteemed are And all the things thou canst desire may not with her compare 16 In her right hand the length of dayes abide as in their seat And in her left hand also are riches and honour great 17 Her wayes are wayes of pleasantnesse which mens heart do solace And which should much stirre up our hearts ev'n all her paths are peace 18 She is a tree of life to them that on her hold do lay And ev'ry one that her retaines is happy ev'ry way 19 The Lord by wisdome founded hath the earth and made it sure By understanding he the heavens hath stablish'd to endure 20 By his knowledge are broken up the depths that are not few The lofty clouds GODS charets high drop downe the pleasant dew 21 My son let them not from thine eyes by any way depart See that thou keep discretion well and wisedome sound in heart 22 So shall they be unto thy soule as life thee to protect They likewise shall not faile to be as grace unto thy neck 23 Then thou protected by the Lord shalt safely in thy way With courage walk so that thy foot not stumble shall alway When thou lyes downe thou shalt not be afraid by danger deep Yea thou most safely shalt ly down and sweet shall be thy sleep 25 Let not thy heart be sore afraid of any sudden fear Nor of the desolation great when it doth come right neer 26 For GOD of thy sure confidence shall alwayes be the root From being taken in a girn he shall keep well thy foot 27 Withhold not good from them to whom it 's due as by a band When as to do the same it 's in the power even of thine hand 28 Say not unto thy neighbour Go and come againe to me And I to morrow will it give when it thou hast by thee 29 Against thy neighbour any way see thou devise not ill Since that he doth by thee alwayes ev'n most securely dwell 30 With any man without a cause strive not in any terme If so be that he innocent hath done to thee no harme 31 Vaine oppressours envie thou not who do poore men abuse And see that thou be very ware none of their wayes to chuse 32 For an abomination great the froward is alway Unto the Lord but his secret is with the righteous ay 33 GODS curse upon the wickeds house shall bring it all to dust But he most plenteously doth blesse the dwelling of the just 34 Surely he in his wrath doth scorne the scorners to their face But unto men of humble hearts he alwayes giveth grace 35 The wise shall all inherit still great glory in their name But the promotion of all fooles shall be nothing but shame Chap. 4. YEE children of a father hear the teaching wise and learn'd And to know understanding good with diligence attend 2 For I to you give doctrine wise that ye may stand in aw And walk in mine obedience and not forsake my law 3 For ev'n I was my fathers son his pleasure and delight Yea tender and beloved well in my dear mothers sight 4 He taught me al 's and said to me let thine heart now beleeve My words al 's my commandements all keep well that thou may live 5 Get wisdome understanding get most heavenly and divine Forget it not and from my words see that thou not decline 6 Forsake her not and so she shall most safe preserve thee still Love her with all thine heart and she shall keep thee from all ill 7 Wisedome as all men well may know in cheefest place is set Therefore get wisdome and with that good understanding get 8 Exalt her high and she shall thee promote in every place To honour great she shall thee bring when thou dost her embrace 9 She shall to thee an ornament of grace give lovingly A crown of glory sure she shall deliver unto thee 10 Hear O my son consider well and hear now lovingly My words and the years of thy life shall blest and many be 11 I have thee taught in Wisdomes way and that with all my might I also have thee straightly led in pathes that are most right 12 When thou shalt go thy steps shall not be straitned sore at all And when thou runnest thou shalt not once stumble for to fall 13 Take fast
hold of instruction still let her not go away Keep her with all thine heart because she is thy life alway 14 Of wicked men see that the path thou enter not into And in the way of livers lewd see that thou never go 15 Avoid it well with all thine heart be wise passe not it by Turn from it with all diligence and quickly passe away 16 For they sleep not except they have mischief done great or small And their sleep soon doth passe away till they cause some to fall 17 For they the bread of wickednesse eat with all diligence And drunkards like they glut and drink the wine of violence 18 But the path of the Just is as the shining light alway That shineth more and more unto the clear and perfect day 19 The way of wicked men is as the darknesse of the night At what they stumble more or lesse they brutish know not right 20 My son with diligence attend unto my words divine Unto my wholesome sayings see that thou thine eare incline 21 By carelesnesse from thy two eyes let them no time depart But keep them as a treasure rich in the midst of thine heart 22 For unto these that do them finde they give life and refresh The hearts of men and are also even health to all their flesh 23 Keep thy heart with all diligence from wickednesse and strife For as a fountaine out of it the issues are of life 24 Put far away from thee a mouth that 's froward and averse From words of grace put far from thee the lips that are perverse 25 Let still thine eyes look right upon the things that they do see And let thine eye-lids be direct'd straight to look before thee 26 The path of thy feet ponder well that thou may still walk sure And also let thy wayes all be establish'd to endure 27 Unto the right hand nor the left turne not for wrath or love From the evill workes of wicked men see thou thy foot remove Chap. 5. MY son with diligence attend unto my wisedome now And to my understanding al 's thine ear incline and bow 2 That thou mayest discretion good in heart wisely regard And that thy lips may knowledge keep above all watch and ward 3 For of a strange woman the lips as hony drop and boile Her tongue and mouth much smoother are then is the finest oile 4 But as the woormwood bitter is so her end in a word Most bitter is yea sharp is it as a two edged sword 5 Her filthie feet go down to death which doth mans life expell Lest any be deceiv'd thereby her steps take hold on hell 6 Lest thou should weigh the way of life the same for to allow Her wayes are still so moveable that thou canst not them know 7 Therefore ye children now my voice well hear with all your heart And from the wise words of my mouth see that ye not depart 8 Remove thy way right far from her vile and unrighteous And take good heed that nigh the doore thou come not of her house 9 Lest to these thou thine honour give who are great foes to thee And the time of thy yeeres to these that fierce and cruell be 10 Lest strangers with thy richest wealth be filled plenteouslie And thy most painefull labours all in strangers houses be 11 And that thou a vaine fool at last to grieve and mourne begin When thy flesh and thy body both consumed are with sin 12 And say Oh how instruction good have hated I unwise And how did my most foolish heart such sweet reproofs despise 13 And the voice of my teachers all would not obey or hear Nor to them that did me instruct would I incline mine eare 14 Amidst the Congregation great most foolishly almost In all ill which did compasse me I perish'd was and lost 15 The waters of thine owne cisterne drink thou aboundantly And waters out of thine owne well that runne most pleasantly 16 Spare not thy fountaines full but them all largely still disperse To let thy rivers flow in streets see thou be not averse 17 Let them be onely for thy self and such as fear the Lord But unto strangers wicked men nothing at all afford 18 Let thy fountaine which is for thee be bless'd with heart and voice And with the dear wife of thy youth with gladnesse great rejoice 19 Let her be as the Hind and Roe which pleasantly do move And let her breast thee satisfie still ravisht with her love 20 My son why wilt thou ravish'd be thy self for to solace With a stranger and her bosome in thine armes to embrace 21 For all mans wayes are still before the eyes of th' Eternall And in his ballance wisely he pondreth his goings all 22 The wicked shall be taken with his own iniquitie And with the coards of his own sins he shall fast holden be 23 He shall without instruction sure come to his dying day And in his foly great he shall for ever go astray Chap. 6. If thou my son be for thy friend as surety for to stand If with a stranger by promise thou striken hast thine hand 2 Thou with the words of thine owne mouth art snared by and by Thou with thine owne wordes taken art which thou canst not deny 3 Do this my son and save thy self when thou art in the hand Of thy friend humble then thy self make sure I thee command 4 Beware that thou in any wayes unto thine eyes give sleep Or suffer slumber day or night on thine eye-lids to creep 5 Thy self deliver as a Roe from hunters hands quickly And as a bird al 's from the hand of these that foulers be 6 Thou Sluggard loit'ring on the downs whom good men should despise Go to the Ant consider well her wayes and then be wise 7 Which having none among the rest her guider for to be â—ea which hath none to rule at all or yet to oversee 8 In Summer with wisdome her meat she doth right well provide â—nd carefully doth gather all her food in the harv'st tide 9 How long wilt thou sleep and ly still O sluggard most unwise When wilt thou from thy slumber and thy drousie sleep arise 10 Yet wilt thou say A little sleep and slumber doth me please A little folding of the hands to sleep and be at ease 11 So shall come fast thy poverty do what thou may or can As one that travails and thy want as doth an armed man 12 A naughty person which can not in good things do or talk A wicked man that hates the Lord with froward mouth doth walk 13 He winketh with his wily eyes he speaketh with his feet He with his fingers fals doth teach such lyes as he thinks meet 14 Much frowardnesse is in his heart he mischeef doth devise Continually he doth discord both sow and enterprise 15 Therefore most sudden upon him shall his calamitie Come shortly shall he broken all be without remedie 16 These six things
are still in righteousnesse No froward thing there is at all in them or yet perverse 9 They are all plaine to him that hath an understanding mind They are also all right to them that wisely knowledge find 10 Care not for silver but receive instruction manifold And carefully for knowledge seek more then the choisest gold 11 For wisedome Rubies is above and all the things most faire That may by men desired be can not with it compare 12 I wisedome with prudence alway do dwell most pleasantly And of inventions knowledge find that grave and wittie be 13 The feare of God is for to hate evill pride arrogancy And the evill way and froward mouth doe I hate all greatly 14. Counsell is mine and wisedome sound as men shall know at length I understanding am indeed I have no lake of strength 15 By me the mighty Kings do reigne who sit on benches hie And mighty Princes in their place do justice al 's decree 16 By me the Princes rule with might and Nobles by my grace Even all the Judges of the earth from me receive their place 17 I with my heart do love all these that have a love to me And these most surely shall me finde that earely seekers be 18 Continually I have with me both honour and richesse Yea riches dureable that are and also righteousnesse 19 My fruit is better then the gold yea then fine gold that glitter My rev'nue al 's is far above the fine and choicest silver 20 I all men that resort to me lead in the righteous way In the midst al 's of judgments paths that they go not astray 21 That I may cause all these that do me love and honour still Well to inherite wealth and I will all their treasures fill 22 The mighty Lord possessed me with mercies manifold In the beginning of his way before his works of old 23 From everlasting I set up was by his mighty hand From the beginning of all things or ever there was land 24 I was brought foorth when were no deepths even flowing on the ground When no fountaines there were which did with water great abound 25 Before the mountaines setled were before the hilles of worth Yea even from all eternitie I was indeed brought foorth 26 While as the earth and pleasant fields the Lord that 's wise and just Had not yet made nor highest part of all the worlds dust 27 When I prepar'd the heav'ns I was there in my holy place When he a compasse set upon the depths excellent face 28 When he established above the clouds as in a heap When he strengthned by his strong arme the fountaines of the deep 29 When to the sea he gave decree not for to passe a point His precepts when he of the earth the ground stone did appoint 30 Then I by him as one brought up with him was every day I his delight was and did joy before his face alway 31 Rejoiceing in these parts of earth which were indwelled then And my pleasure and cheefe delights were with the sonnes of men 32 Now therefore hearken unto me ye children young in dayes â—or they indeed most blessed are that wisely keep my wayes 33 Be wise and good instruction al 's be most glade for to hear And see that thou do not refuse unto it to give eare 34 Blest is the man that heareth me and watcheth at my gates â—nd of my doores waits at the posts as poor men in such seats 35 For who so findeth me doth find life which is greatest gaine â—nd he of the LORD GOD above much favour shall obtaine 36 But he that against me forlorne himself to sin doth move Much wrongs his owne soul yea all they that hate me death do love Chap. 9. VVIsedome her faire house builded hath which seemly is to see She hath hew'n out her pillars seven as ornaments to be 2 She killed hath the beast she hath mingled her costly wine She furnish'd hath her table rich with dainties good and fine 3 Her maidens that attend her she hath sent foorth by and by Upon the highest places of the citie she doth cry 4 Let simple men turne hither in and that without delay And as for him that wanteth wit she to him thus doth say 5 Come eat of my most blessed bread as I do you command And drink of the wine which I have well mingled with my hand 6 All these that foolish be forsake that happy so thou may Live a blest life and also goe in understandings way 7 He that reproves a scorner gets shame to himselfe and spot And he that wicked men rebukes doth get himself a blot 8 To shunne all hatred see that thou a scorner not reprove But a wise man rebuke and he will thee most surely love 9 Give to the wise instruction good and he will wiser be Teach a just man and he increase in learning will by thee 10 GODS fear is the beginning of wisdome that maketh wise The knowledge of the holy is ev'n wisedome sound alwayes 11 For thy dayes in great mercy shall be multipli'd by me â—nd the years of thy blessed life shall sure increased be 12 If thou be wise thou shalt be wise for thy selfe this now heare â—ut if thou scornest thou alone the smart thereof shalt beare 13 A woman that is clamorous and troubleth all the land â—e simple is and nothing knowes as she should understand 14 For at the doore she of her house sits idly on a seat the high places which are of the city large and great 15 To call the simple Passengers to make them go astray When for their worldly businesse they go right on their way 16 Who so is simple let him turn now hither for to sit And also she doth say to him that wanteth sprituall wit 17 The stoln waters of carnall lust are delicate and sweet And bread in secret corners are most pleasant for to eat 18 But he knows not that there the dead are though the Lord it tell And that her mad and foolish guests are in the depths of hell Chap. 10. A Wise son to his fathers heart doth cause joy and gladnesse But to his mother dear a fool brings grief and heavinesse 2 The treasures of great wickednesse no profite bring to man But righteousnesse deliv'reth sure from death that 's pale and wan 3 The Lord will not let good mens souls both famish and decay â—ut he the goods of wicked men in wrath doth cast away He that with a slack hand doth deale anone becometh poor â—t of the diligent the hand enricheth men most sure He that in Summer gathreth is a wise son worthy fame â—t he that sleeps in harv'st is sure a son that causeth shame Great blessings are upon the head of men without offence â—t the mouth of the wicked is cov'red with violence The memory of the just man who lives without a spot â—â—st blessed is but sure the name of wicked men shall rot The wise
recompence Much more shall wicked sinners get for all their fair pretence Chap. 12. VVHo so doth love instruction good he knowledge loves also But he that hateth a reproof like a bruit beast doth go 2 A good man hath Gods favour great who will not him contemne But a man of devices ev'll he surely will condemne 3 A man establish'd shall not be by his owne wickednesse But the root of the righteous shall not be mov'd more or lesse 4 A woman to her husband good is as Crownes set with stones But she that maketh him asham'd brings rotting in his bones 5 The thoughts all of the righteous man are right in GODS conceit But counsels all of wicked men are fraud and meer deceit 6 The words of ill men are to lie in waite for blood alone But the mouth of the upright shall deliver them anone 7 The wicked men are overthrown and are not to be found But the house of the righteous man shall stand fast on the ground 8 A man shall be commended much as men shall find him wise But him that is perverse in heart all good men shall despise 9 He that despised is and hath a servant is indeed Much better then who honour doth himself and lacketh bread 10 The righteous the life of his beast regardeth neer and far But the most tender mercies of the wicked cruell are 11 He that his land doth till shall be well satisfied with bread But he that followeth persons vaine is void of wit indeed 12 The wicked of ill men the net desire most earnestly But the root of the righteous men yeelds fruit aboundantly 13 The wicked by words of his lips is snared round about But he that in his wayes is just of trouble shall come out 14 A man by the fruit of his mouth with good shall filled be And of his hands the recompence shall rendred be surelie 15 The way of fooles in their owne eyes seemes to be just and right But who to counsell good gives eare is onely wise aright 16 A fooles wrath kindled as a fire is well known presently But he that is a prudent man doth cover shame wisely 17 He that alwayes doth speak the truth doth shew foorth righteousnesse But a fals witnesse in his words doth still deceit expresse 18 There many be that do speak like the pearcing of a sword But the tongue of the wise truely is health in every word 19 The lip of truth for ever shall establish'd be most sure But a tongue lying doth but for a moments space endure 20 Deceit is in the heart of them that forge ill to annoy But to the counsellours of peace is gladnesse great and joy 21 No ill shall happen to the just which may procure his greef But the men wicked and perverse shall fild be with mischeefe 22 The lying lips are to the Lord abomination right But they that truely in their wayes doe deal are his delight 23 A prudent man his knowledge great conceals in quietnesse But the hearts of the foolish men proclaime their foolishnesse 24 The good hand of the diligent shall beare rule over all But the man sloathfull in his wayes shall under tribute fall 25 While heavinesse is in the heart it maketh it to stoop But a good word it maketh glad and so no more doth droop 26 The righteous then his neighbour is more excellent alway But the way of the wicked doth seduce them every day 27 The sloathfull man he rosteth not which he took at his chase But the wealth of the diligent is good in every place 28 In the blest way of righteousnesse is life for great and small And in the fair path way thereof there is no death at all Chap. 13. A Fathers good instruction sure a wise son well doth hear But scorners unto wise rebuke will no wayes give their ear 2 By the fruit of his mouth a man shall for a recompence â—â—at good things but the sinners soul shall still eat violence 3 He that his mouth keeps keeps his life that it may sure abide But he shall perish who his lips perversly opneth wide 4 The sluggards soul desireth much and hath nothing to spend But of the diligent the soul shall be made fat in end 5 5 righteous man doth alwayes hate and lying lips doth blame But he that 's wicked loathsome is and comes at last to shame 6 Sure righteousnesse keeps him that is upright in the good way â—ut wickednesse doth overthrow the men that goe astray 7 There is that maketh rich himself yet hath no thing to spend â—here is that al 's himselfe makes poor yet is found rich in end 8 The riches of the wealthy man are of his life most dear â—he ransome but a sharp rebuke the poore refuse to heare 9 The faire light of the righteous man rejoyceth every one But of the wicked man the lamp shall be put out anone 10 By pride onely that is most fierce great strife the land doth fill But with the well advised man is wisdome ever still 11 Wealth purchased by vanitie shall suddenly decrease But who by labour gathreth well shall in great wealth increase 12 Deferred hope makes sick the heart with lingring and delay But when desire is come it is a tree of life alway 13 Who so the word despiseth shall destroyed be surely But he that the commandment feares shall well rewarded be 14 Of life a fountaine is the law of him that 's wise in heart And likewise from the snares of death in great hast to depart 15 Good understanding in affaires doth favour give alway But hard and full of trouble is of transgressours the way 16 The man that surely prudent is with knowledge wisely deales But in his wordes and workes a fool his folly soone reveales 17 A messenger that wicked is doth fall into mischiefe But a faithfull ambassadour is health for mans releefe 18 Both shame and poverty shall be to him that doth refuse â—nstruction but he that regards reproofe shall honour chuse 19 Desire accomplish'd is most sweet unto the soul and heart â—ut foolish men abhorre alwayes from ill for to depart 20 He that with wise men walketh shall be surely wise anone â—ut a companion of the fooles shall be destroy'd and gone 21 Much ill doth sinners still persue but to the righteous sort â—ood at all times surely shall be repay'd to their comfort 22 A good man an inheritance to his children doth leave But sinners wealth is laid up for all those that justly live 23 Much food assuredly is in the tillage of the poor But there is that destroyed is for want of judgement sure 24 He that doth spare his rod doth hate his son that seemes most dear But he that loveth him betimes to smite will not forbear 25 The righteous eats and satisfied his soul doth know no scant But of the wicked men at last the belly sure shall want Chap. 14. EAch woman wise doth build her house right wisely she
him that without wisdome is great foly is his joy But uprightly he walks who wise his wits doth well imploy 22 Great purposes do fail when they good counsell are without But stablish'd they by numbers are of Counsellours about 23 By th'answer of his mouth a man hath joy well understood A spoken word in season due sure is exceeding good 24 The way of life is high above to him that wisedome hath That so he may right speedily depart from hell beneath 25 The proud mans house God will destroy that it may not endure But of widowes the border he establish will most sure 26 The Lord abhors the thoughts of these that constant are in ill But the words of the pure in heart are words most pleasant still That man his own soul troubleth much that greedy is of gaine But he that doth hate bribes and gifts shall sure alive remaine 28 The righteous heart doth studie still to answere every houre But the mouth of the wicked sort still ill things out doth powre 29 Unto all such that wicked are the Lord will not come neere But of all these that righteous be the prayer he well doth hear 30 The light of th' eyes doth still rejoice the heart and it comfort And al 's the bones are all made fat even with a good report 31 The eare that the reproofe of life doth hear well and obey Delighteth much for to abide among the wise alway 32 He that instruction doth refuse his own soul doth despise But he that humbly hears reproof gets understanding wise 33 Gods fear is the instruction good of wisdome most surely Before the time that honour come is true humility Chap. 16. THe preparation of the heart in man both night and day â—nd al 's the answere of the tongue is from the Lord alway 2 All the wayes of a carnall man in his own eyes are clean â—ut God doth weigh the sprits which are of him most clearly seen 3 Unto the Lord commit thy works that they may well endure â—nd he the thoughts shall of thine heart establish still most sure 4 The Lord most wisely for himself things of all sort hath made â—â—st a for the day of great distresse the wicked and the bad 5 The Lord abhors the proud in heart what ever he think or say â—hough hand join hand unpunished he shall not be alway 6 By Mercy and Truth wickednesse is purged from the heart And by the true feare of the Lord men from all ill depart 7 When a mans wayes reformed well the mighty Lord doth please He maketh even his enemies all to be with him at peace 8 A little thing with righteousnesse is better in Gods sight Then revenewes both great and large obtain'd against all right 9 The heart of man that prudent is his way may well devise But all his steps directed are by God both good and wise 10 A divine sentence in the lips of the King oft is found His mouth well rul'd transgresseth not in judgement good and sound 11 A just weight and the ballance al 's unto the Lord belong The weights all of the bagge his work are all the earth among 12 Abomination unto Kings to practise wickednesse It is for stablish'd is the Throne most sure by righteousnesse 13 The righteous lips that shunne all lies of Kings are the delight â—nd they do much respect and love him that doth speak aright 14 The wrath of Kings most surely is as messengers of death â—t he that prudent is and wise will pacifie such wrath 15 In light of the Kings countenance life doth alwayes remaine â—s favour al 's is as a cloud ev'n of the latter raine 16 Much better then the gold is it to get wisdome divine â—nd to get understanding then the silver that is fine 17 The high way of the upright is from all ill to depart â—t that wisely doth keep his way preserves his soul and heart 18 Pride got'h before destruction still among both great and small â—nd likewise doth an hauty sprite before a shamefull fall 19 Humble to be it better is with these that lowly be Then to devide with lofty men the richest spoile we see 20 He that his matters wisely guides shall alway find good speed And who so trusteth in the Lord he happy is indeed 21 The wise in heart in all their wayes most prudent call they will Likewise the sweetnesse of the lips increaseth learning still 22 A well of life unto the wife is wisedome most surelie But of fooles the instruction all great folly semees to be 23 Of the wise man the prudent heart his mouth doth wisely teach And maketh learning of all sorts unto his lips to reach 24 Words pleasant are as hony combs unto the soule most sweet And also to the bruised bones for health they are most meet 25 There is a way which unto man seemes right but in Gods wrath The end thereof which fearfull is the ill wayes are of death 26 He that doth labour doth it all for him self for to have For his mouth in necessitie the same of him doth crave 27 A man ungodly in his wayes digs up ill with desire And in his lips set on mischeefe there is a burning fire 28 A man that hath a froward heart discord doth sow and strife â—nd whisperers do sep'rat soone the cheefest friends in life 29 A man that 's given to violence his neighbour doth entise â—nd leadeth him into the way of wicked and unwise 30 He shuts his eyes things froward to devise a great trespasse â—e moves his lips with fraud and guile and bringeth ill to passe 31 The hoary head a fair crowne is of glory and riches it be well and wisely found in wayes of righteousnesse 32 He that 's to anger slow excells the mighty all among And he that rul's his speach him that doth take a city strong 33 The lot is cast unto the lap as at peradventur But the disposing all thereof is of the Lord most sure Chap. 17. A Morsell dry much better is and quietnesse of life Then houses full of sacrifice with great debate and strife 2 A wise servant shall over rule a son that causeth shame And shall inherit them among who brethren are by name 3 The fining pot for silver is appointed by and by And furnace for the gold but God the hearts of men doth try 4 A wicked doer to fals lips attentively gives head A liar al 's doth give his eare to naughty tongues indeed 5 Who mocks the poore his maker doth reproch most shamefully â—e punish'd sure shall be that is glade at calamity Childrens children a blest off-spring of old men are the crowne And fathers al 's of children are the glory and renowne 7 Speach excellent becometh not the men that foolish be Much lesse becometh it a Prince with lying lips to lie 8 A gift in his eyes that it hath is as a precious stone Whethersoever it doth turne it prospreth well anone 9
me houses pleasantly planted also with great paines me vineyards as ye see I made me pleasant gardens and oâ—chards with flowers and roots also planted trees in them even of all kinds of fruites 6 I made me pooles of water deep as though they had been seas To water therewith pleasantlie the wood with goodly trees 7 With silver I did servants buy and also maidens faire I had borne also in mine house in vertue servants rare I had possessions great also of cattell lesse and more Above all these that did excell in Salem me before 8 Silver and gold I gath'red al 's with great dexteritie And the peculiar treasure of Kings and Provinces hie Men singers and maid singers I and the delights of men With instruments most musicall of all sorts got I then 9 So I increased more then all that in Salems city Were me before my wisdome al 's remained still in me 10 And whatsoever thing that was desired by mine eye did it not keep back from them that they it should not see y heart I not with held from joy for my heart did rejoice all my labour and this was my portion and my choice 11 Then did I look on all the workes that my hand had wrought so â—d on the labour that I had much labour'd for to do ehold vexation of the sprite and vanitie was all nder the Sun there surely was no profite great or small When this was done I speedily my self did turne againe â—sdome and madnesse to behold and al 's mans foly vaine or what can do the man that comes after the mightie king â—en that which hath already been done even the self same thing Then did I see that wisdome did all folly far excell s far as light doth darknesse black when it doth it expell 14 The wise mans eyes are in his head but men of judgement small Walk all in darknesse One event doth happen to them all 15 Then I anone said in my heart when I this thing did see As it doth happen to the fool so hapneth it to me And why was I more wise then they who were thought fooles to be Then I againe said in my heart this al 's is vanitie 16 For there no more remembrance is of the wise no thing differ Then of the fool that nothing knowes all is forgot for ever Seeing that which is at this time shall be in latter dayes Forgot And how as foolish men likewise do die the wise 17 Therefore I hated life because all work under the Sun Is grievous yea is vanitie and a vexation 18 Yea I did hate my labour all which I below did see Because I should leave it to him that should come after me And who by his intelligence can know whether he shall man be unto wisdome given or one of judgement small â—t of my painfull labours all he shall the master be â— that I have he shall command this al 's is vanitie Therefore thus pensive in my minde I went about with care all the labour which I tooke to cause my heart despaire For on the earth there is a man whose labour seemes to be wisdome and in knowledge great and al 's in equitie â—t shall he leave it to the man who labour'd not a white his also is a vanitie and a great ill of sprite For of his labour what hath man that may content his heart herein he hath under the Sun sore toil'd in every part 23 For all his dayes are sorrowes great travaile and greef surely Yea his heart rests not in the night this al 's is vanitie 24 There is no better thing for man then eat drink and the good Of his labour well to enjoy as from the hand of God 25 For who among the Princes all hath power great more then I To eat Or who can heerunto more hasten by and by 26 Fâ—r God doth give unto the man that doth himself imploy In good he gives him wisdome and great knowledge with much joy But he to sinners travel gives to gather and up heap For good men This is vanitie a vexing of the sprite Chap. 3. TO every thing surely there is a season set to be And to each purpose is a time under the heav'n most hie 2 There is a time for to be borne and al 's a time to die A time to plant and to pluck up things that now planted be 3 There is a time also to kill a time to heal the slaine There is a time for to break downe a time to build againe 4 A time to weep a time to laugh with chearfull countenance There is a time also to mourne and a time for to daunce 5 A time for stones to cast away and gather them againe Time to embrace and also from embracing to refraine 6 A time to get a time to losse nothing stands at a stay There is also a time to keep and time to cast away 7 A time there is to make a rent and to sow for to seek A time there is to keep silence and al 's a time to speak 8 A time to love a time to hate each time it hath its place A time there is for fearfull war and al 's a time for peace 9 He that doth work with greatest paines what is his profit sweet In that wherein he labours much with painfull toile and sweate 10 The travaile which GOD gives to men I have seen with mine eyes For such is his good pleasure still men so to exercise 1â— The LORD who in all wisedome is most excellent and prime Hath by his hand made beautifull each thing in i'ts owne time He also hath the world set in their heart all about That none of all the sons of men GODS great work can find out 12 I know there is no good in them but for man far from strife With all his heart for to rejoice and do good in his life 13 And that each man should eat and drink and al 's enjoy the good Of all his labours on the earth it is the gift of GOD. 14 What ever God doth that I know shall even for ever be No thing put to nor yet from it can taken be surely And God by his Almighty hand It worketh lesse or more That all men with a great respect should still fear him before 15 That which hath been is now and that which is to be hath beene And God requires that which is past which men have heard or seene 16 More I of judgement saw the place that there was wickednesse And that iniquitie was in the place of righteousnesse 17 The bad and righteous God shall judge I said then in mine heart â—or for each purpose is a time and al 's for every worke 18 I in mine heart of mens estate said God might easily â—hem manifest and that they might themselves see beasts to be 19 For that which all the sonnes of men befalleth doth befall Unto the beasts even one thing doth befall unto
that an untimely birth much better is then he 4 For he comes in with vanitie and in darknesse departs And his name shall still cov'red be with darknesse in all parts 5 Moreover he hath not the sunne seene nor knowne any thing This more rest then the other hath whose heart much greef doth wring 6 Yea though he live a thousand yeares twice told in a long space â—et hath he seen no good at all all go unto one place 7 Of poore man all the laboure great is for his mouth even stâ—ll â—nd yet his appetite most large nothing can ever fill 8 For what have wise men heere below then the most foolish more What hath the poor that knowes to walk the living here before 9 Of the eyes better is the sight then wandring thoughts can be â—his of the sprite vexation is and also vanitie 10 That which hath been already nam'd is well known man to be With him he can not well contend that stronger is then he 11 Since that there be so many things that vanitie increase â—hat is poor man bettred thereby on the earth more or lesse 12 For who doth know what 's good for man in this life to the end â—e dayes of his vaine life which he doth as a shadow spend For who can by his art or skill unto a man well tell What shall be after him though he in wisedome great excell Chap. 7. A good name is more precious sure then ointment is alway And betrer is the day of death then is a mans birth day 2 Far better it is for to goe where men do dayly mourne Then to resort unto the house where men feast turne by turne For of all men that is the end who dwell in any part And he that on the earth doth live will lay it to his heart 3 Sorrow then laughter better is for by a count'nance sad The heart of man that it beholds is much more better made 4 The hearts of wise men from the house of mourning go not foorth But the heart of these that be fooles is in the house of mirth 5 It better is to hear rebuke and learne in wisemens schooles Then for a man at any time to heare the song of fooles 6 For as the crackling of dry thornes beneath pots seemes to be So is the laughter of the foole this al 's in vanitie 7 Oppression surely maketh mad a wise man in each part And bribes and gifts do so corrupt that they destroy the heart 8 The end of things much better is then their beginnings be And patient men be better then the proud that looke so hie 9 Beware of anger in thy sprite to hast it is not best â—or in the bosome of all fooles great anger still doth rest 10 Say not wherefore were former dayes then these now better be For who concerning this enquires he doth not prudently 11 If with a rich inheritance great wisedome also be It 's good by it there profit is to them that right do see 12 Wisedome and money a defence are mens lives for to save But knowledge surely giveth life to all them that it have 13 Consider well the work of GOD for who by his great might Can that which he hath crooked made againe make to be streight 14 Be thou most joyfull in the day of thy prosperitie But well consider in the time of great adversitie God th' one against the other hath set wisely in their kind Ev'n for this end that after him nothing vaine man should find 15 All things that are heere under sunne I with attentive eye Have seene clearely even in the dayes of my great vanitie There is a just man that is lost even in his righteousnesse Al 's wicked men prolong their life in their great wickednesse 16 Be not thou too too righteous nor yet in a vaine toy Be overwise why shouldest thou in this thy self destroy 17 Be not al 's wicked overmuch nor yet too foolish be Why shouldest thou before the time thy self make for to die 18 It good is that earely in time of this thou should'st take hold Yea from this to withdraw thine hand see that thou be not bold For he that in the feare of God doth dayly on him call Shall have in all things successe good and shall come foorth of all 19 Wisedome the wise doth strengthen more then ten men that excell In mighty strength which pleasantly in cities fair do dwell 20 For on the face of all the earth no man can finde or see A man that 's just or that doth good or that of sin is free 21 Al 's take no heede unto all wordes that by men spoken be Lest that thou hear thy servant griev'd with curses cursing thee 22 For often al 's thine owne heart knowes that thou in great distresse Provoked others cursed hast and that with bitternesse 23 All this I have by wisdome prov'd I said also surely I will be wise grave and discreet but it was far from me 24 That which is far from us remov'd and deep exceedingly Who can by wisdome finde it out where ever hidde it be 25 I did apply mine heart to know and to search round about And wisdome and the reason of things weighty to seek out And al 's of folly for to know clearly the wickednesse Even of the foolishnesse of men and of their great madnesse 26 And bitter more then death I finde the woman whose vaine heart Is snares and nets her hands as bands to catch in every part Who so in GODS good favour is shall from her speedily Escape most safe but sinners shall even by her taken be 27 Behold the preacher wisely saith this have I found anone To weigh and finde out the account even counting one by one 28 Which yet my soul with diligence doth seek and al 's essay All meanes to get it but can not it finde by any way One man among a thousand I have found and understood But sure among all women kinde not one I have found good 29 Loe this onely well found I have that God without all doubt Man hath made upright but they have inventions vaine sought out Chap. 8. WHo is the wise man on the earth who hath understanding To know th'interpretation good of any doubtfull thing A mans wisdome doth make his face most gloriously to shine And of his face the boldnesse shall unto a change incline 2 To keep the Kings commandments all I now do counsell thee And that because of the great oath which should observed be 3 Goe not with speed out of his fight from every ill thing cease For he doth whatsoever things his minde content and please 4 Where the word of a great King is might is there to affray What dost thou now in this or that Who dar unto him say 5 Who so keeps the commandment fast shall surely feel no ill A wise mans heart the judgement and the time discerneth well 6 Because the time and
judgement al 's by man not by and by Observed are therefore on him comes a great misery 7 For for to know the things to come he doth not so excell In wisdome great when it shall be who among men can tell 8 There is no man that any strength hath to retaine the breath He likewise hath no power at all when comes the day of death Of weapons there no casting is or in that war discharge Nor yet ill men shall wickednesse aâ— any time enlarge 9 This have I seene under the Sun and clearly understood Some time a man ov'r others rules against his proper good 10 Such a great man I have well seene with great pompe laide in grave So taken he was from his seat forgotten like a slave 11 Because GOD wrath not executs ' gainst wicked speedily Therefore mens hearts are fully set to do most wickedly 12 Though hundred times a sinner sin and death him still forbeare Yet sure it shall be well with them who GOD do truely feare 13 But wicked men shall not be so nor shall prolong their dayes Which as a shadow are because they feare not GOD alwayes 14 There is upon the earth below done a great vanitie Unto just men it happens as to these that wicked be Againe there be most wicked men to whom befals surely According as to righteous folk this al 's is vanitie 16 Then mirth I did commend because mans cheef thing under sunne Is to eate drink with merrinesse untill this life be done For of his labour that with him shall all his dayes abide Which GOD upon him doth bestow under the Heav'ns most wide 16 When I did wisedome seek to know and things on earth to see There were who neither day nor night did sleep once with their eye 17 Then I beheld the work of GOD that no man by his minde The worke that is done under sunne can clearely all out find Chap. 9. FOR all this I well in mine heart considered to declare That righteous and wise with their workes in GODS hand surely were No man upon the earth below doth either lesse or more Know love or hatred by all that which is heere him before 2 All things alike do come to all there is one event sure Both to the good and to the cleane and to him that 's impure To him that sacrificeth al 's in fervent zeal most hote And likewise to him that profane al 's sacrificeth not As is the good of godly life so is the sinner both And he that sweareth most profane as he that feares an oath 3 This is an ill all things among though they be great or small Under the Sun even that there is one event unto all Yea al 's the hearts of sonnes of men are full of ill indeed They live in madnesse after that they go unto the dead 4 For unto him that liveth heere there is hope more or lesse For better far a living dog then a dead Lion is 5 The living know that they shall die but dead both great and small Know nothing they have no reward they are forgotten all 6 Their love hatred and envie al 's is perish'd quite away Of all that 's done under the sunne no portion more have they 7 Now go and eate thy bread with joy and with a merrie heart Al 's drink thy wine for God thy workes accepteth in good part 8 Let all thy garments which thou weares be alwayes white and cleane Let not thy head at any time lake ointment that hath beene 9 With thy deare wife see all thy dayes thou live most joyfully For that thy portion in this life is most assuredly 10 What thing thine hand shall find to do it do with all thy might For neither work nor wisdome is in graves all void of light 11 I did returne and saw below the sonnes of men among That to the swift is not the race nor battells to the strong Nor bread nor riches nor favour unto wise men of skill But time and chance unto them all do happen ever still 12 For man also most ignorant knowes not his time that 's set As fishes all that taken are in a deceitfull net And as birds that are caught in snares so are the sons of men Snar'd in an ill time when it falls most quickly upon them 13 This wisedome worthy of respect have I seene with mine eye Under the Sun such was its worth it seemed great to me 14 A little city with few men there was and against it A great King came and it besieg'd and built his bulwarks great 15 There was in it a poor man found who by his wisdome great Did save the city yet no man remembred him a white 16 Then said I wisdome better is then strength neverthelesse The poor mans wisdome is despisde and his wordes more or lesse 17 In quiet wise mens wordes are heard as in most learned schooles More then the cry of him that rules among the lofty fooles 18 Then warriours weapons better is wisdome that bringeth joy But one sinner that wicked is much good will soone destroy Chap. 10. DEad flies do cause the ointment best of Apothecarie To send foorth even a savour vile stinking most filthilie So doth a little foly al 's most shamefully disgrace Him that for wisdome and honour among men hath a place 2 As the right hands of any men to worke most nimble be So is the wise mans heart but hearts of fooles like left hands be 3 Yea also when he that 's a foole walkes by the way anone His wisdome failes that hee 's a fool he saith to every one 4 If the sprite of the Ruler great shall rise up against thee â—eave not thy place for yeelding doth offences pacifie 5 There is an ill under the sun which I have seene indeed As an errour which surely from the Ruler doth proceed 6 Foly is set in dignity which is a great disgrace While these who truly able are do sit in a low place 7 I have on horses servants seene and after I anone Have Princes seene as servants base walking the earth upon 8 He that for others digs a pit shall surely in it fall And who so breaketh down an hedge a serpent bite him shall 9 Who so removeth stones shall be hurt therewith by and by And he that cleaveth wood shall be endangered thereby 10 If that yron be blunt and he do not the edge well whet Then must he quick put to more strength but wisdome must direct 11 Except the serpent venemous by charmes inchanted be Sure bite he will a babler vaine no better is then he 12 Of a good wise mans mouth the wordes are gracious but the lip Of one that is a babling fool himself will swallow up 13 While he begins to speak his wordes are but meere foolishnesse Likewise the end of his discourse is nothing but madnesse 14 A fool is fill'd with wordes no man can well tell what shall be And what then shall
appointed as by lot 10 He found them in a desert land and wast wildernesse He Him led instructed and him keept as th'apple of his eye 11 As th' Eagle stirreth up her nest fluttreth her young upon Her wings doth spread and taketh them to carry them thereon 12 So the good Lord did him alone lead in all wayes safely And no strange god there was with him in all that company 13 He made them ride on Canaan high that he th' increase might eat He made him oile and hony suck from flintie rocks most sweet 14 Butter of Kine and milk of Sheep he gave to every man With fat of Lambs and also Rams of the breed of Bashan He gave them Goats with the fat of Kidneyes of wheat right good And of the sweet Grapes thou didst drink the pure wine red like blood The second Part. 15 But Jeshurun who should have beene most righteous then did kick Thou waxed art exceeding fat thou art growne very thick Thou cov'red art with fatnesse then his maker he forsooke And of his sure salvations rock no care at all he took 16 With strange gods they provoked him unto great jealousie With great abominations they him angry made to be 17 They sacrificed unto devils to gods whom they not knew Whom your fathers did never feare ev'n gods that were but new 18 Thou art unmindfull of the Rock which thee once did beget And the Lord God that formed thee thou didst alwayes forget The third part 19 And when the LORD saw it he did abhorre them all anone Because of the provoking great of Daughter and of Son 20 He said I will from them my face hide and I will now see Their end they are a froward race in whom no faith can be 21 With that which is not GOD they have me mov'd to jealousie â—o anger they have me provok'd with their great vanitie them also to jealousie with such as are no flock Will move to anger them with fools I surely will provoke 22 For in my wrath fire kindled is such as no tongue can tell It shall not cease alwayes to burne ev'n to the lowest hell It shall consume the earth all with her increase mans desire And the foundations of the mount shall surely set on fire 23 Upon them of mischeef a heap I certainly will send I also upon them in wrath mine arrowes now will spend 24 They shall consumed be and burnt with paine of hunger great And suddenly shall be devour'd with a most burning heat And with bitter destruction I will also on them thrust The teeth of beasts with poison al 's of serpents of the dust 25 The sword without terrour within destroy shall and not spare The young man Virgin Sucklings al 's with the man of gray haire 26 I said I into corners would them quickly scatter then I would make their rememberance to cease from among men 27 Were it not that I the great wrath fear'd of the enemie Lest their vaine adversaries should behave themselves strangly And lest that they puft up with pride should say these words anone Our hand now high is and the LORD this work all hath not done 28 For they all a vaine Nation are of wholesome counsell void No understanding good at all in them doth still abide 29 O that they were wise so that they this clearly understood That they would now their latter end consider for their good 30 How should but one a thousand chase and two al 's put to flight Ten thousand if their Rock had not them sold and shut up right 31 For their rock in no way is as our rock that mighty is We none but ev'n our enemies seek for to be Judge of this 32 Of Sodom and Gomorrahs field their vine I truely call Their clusters great most bitter are their grapes are grapes of gall 33 Their wine is Dragons poison which from these grapes doth distill And is the cruell venime of vile Aspes that men do kill 34 Is not this wickednesse laid up in a great store with me And up among my treasures al 's ev'n sealed secretlie The fourth Part. 35 To me belongeth vengeance and recompence for their crime Their foot shall slide assuredly in due appointed time For their day of calamitie is surely neere at hand And the things that shall come on them Make hast and shall not stand 36 For the Lord shall his people judge and for his folks repent When their great power hee sees all gone and altogether spent 37 And he in his great wrath shall say where are there gods of might Their rock in whom they trusted much they come not now in sight 38 Which ate fatlings and wine offrings in drink did not reject et them rise up and with their strength you help and al 's protect 39 See now that I am he ev'n I no god there is with me kill I also make alive I wound I heal safely here be not one among the gods by sea or yet by land hat by his strength deliver can out of my mightie hand 40 For I my hand unto the Heaven do now lift up and heave â— signe of a great oath and say for ever as I live 41 If I my glistring sword whet and judge in severitie vengeance surely will reward to my foes that hate me 42 I will mine arrowes in my wrath which is now kindled sore ake drunk with blood and my sword shall their filthie flesh devore And that with the blood of the slaine and men that captives be From the beginning of revenge upon the enemie 34 Rejoice ye nations with his folk for he who doth not change Will the blood of his servants dear most speedily avenge And to his adversaries will a vengeance render full And to his people and his land will be most mercifull THE SONG OF DEBORAH AND BARAK After the Victorie against th armie of Jabin King of Canaan who reigned in Hazor whose Captaine was Sisera whose head was cut off by Jahel the wife of Heber JUDGES 5. vers 2. PRaise ye the LORD for th' avenging of his own Israel so When as the people willingly did to the battell go Hear Kings and Princes I even I will sing unto the Lord nto the Lord God of Isra'l I praises will afford Lord when thou wentst from Seir when thou didst march from Edom land he Earth trembled the Heavens did drop the clouds they did disband The Mountaines melted from before the Lord God Eternell â—en that Sinai from God before the God of Israel In SHAMGARS dayes son of ANATH in the dayes of JAEL â—e high wayes were unoccupi'd they went in bywayes all The indwellers of villages in Israel did cease ntill that I DEBORAH rose a mother to make peace They chose new gods then in their gates was war was there a shield spear fourty thousand among in city or in field 8 My heart to Isra'ls Governours is that with one accord Offred themselves most willingly to Battell blesse the
LORD 9 Speake ye that ride on Asses white in Rulers chief aray And ye that sit in judgement and that travell by the way 10 And ye the poorest of the land whose trade was still to draw Waters from wells Of Archers ye did greatly stand in aw Yee from this feare delivered GODS great workes magnifie Who hath traffique and Iustice giv'n in village and citie 11 Awake awake awake awake DEBORAH sing anone Arise BARAK and lead Captive thou of AHINOAN son 12 Him that remaines he made to rule ov'r the Nobilitie Ov'r people al 's the LORD me gave rule over the mighty 13 Of EPHRAIM gainst AMALEK there was a worthy root And after thee stout BENjAMIN among thy people great rom MACHIR of MANASSE came governours goodly men o this service came ZEBULON scribes handling well the pen 15 And the most mighty Princes of strong ISSACHAR that day Were with DEBORAH in the field ev'n ISSACHAR I say here BARAK to the valley sent on foot did soone depart or the divisions of REUBEN there were great thoughts of heart 16 Why from the Sheepfolds wouldst not thou go for to act thy part or the divisions of REUBEN were searchings great of heart 17 Beyond JORDAN GILEAD abode and why did DAN remaine â— ships Asher on the sea shore sought in his breaches gaine 18 ZEBULON and NEPHTALI stout were arm'd with Spear and Shield hey jeoparded their lives all in high places of the field 19 The Kings of CANA'N came and fought JABIN for to maintaine In TANAH to MEGIDDO neere but thereby did not gaine ' Gainst SISERA the clouds and wind did fight from the Heav'ns hie The bright starres in their courses al 's fought most couragiouslie 21 The river KISHON ev'n KISHON did sweep them all away O thou my soul thou hast downe troad great strength without delay 22 Then the strong horsehoves broken were ev'n with their strongest bones By the meanes of the pransings great of the most mighty Ones 23 Curse yee MEROS the Angel said yea curse them bitterly Because they did not help the Lord ' gainst these that were mighty 24 JAEL the wife of HEBER shall blest above women be Above women she shall be blest in the tent most surely 25 He asked water and she gave him milk of sweet relish She also wisely butter brought foorth in a lordly dish 26 She with a hammer and a naile smote SISERA indeed When she his Temples pierced had she did smite off his head 27 He bow'd and fâ—ll and lay downe he at her feet bow'd and fell Where he bow'd there he fell downe dead at the feet of JAHEL 28 SISERAS mother looked out at windowes and did cry hrough the lattesse with joy of heart to these thar passed by Why taries his Charet so long What hinder doth it let Why tarie thus the wheeles most swift of his Princely Charet 29 When her wise Ladies heard these wordes they did not long defer â—o give answer yea to her self she return'd this answer 30 Have they not well in Battell sped have they not all also arted the prey to every man a damosell or two To SISERA a wealthy prey who his foes strong did foile A colour'd prey of needle work for these that take the spoile 31 So perish let thy foes O Lord but who with heart upright Him love let them be as the Sun when he goes foorth in might The Song of Hannah whicâ— She sang to GOD when Shâ— had borne Samuel after long barrennesse 1 SAM 2. vers 1. MY heart rejoiceth in the LORD my horne exalt did he My mouth is greatly now inlarg'd for his goodnesse to me 2 There is none holy as the LORD there is none beside thee There is no rock that is like God our God the Lord most hie 3 Talk no more proudly as ye do speak not with arrogance For all our deeds the Lord doth weigh in his sacred ballance The strong bowes of the mighty men are broken all at length â—d they that stumbled now are girt with force and divine strength They that were full in plentie have hir'd out themselves for bread â—d they that were in hunger great securly ceasd indeed e that was barren and contemn'd hath borne sev'n great and small â—d she that many children hath is waxed feeble all The LORD by his strong arme doth kill and he doth also save â— lifteth up he bringeth downe unto the stinking grave By his great power he doth make poore and also maketh rich â— bringeth low and raiseth up unto a certaine pitch He raiseth up out of the dust the poor from the dunghill He lifts the begger and him sets on Thrones with Princes still For the strong pillars of the earth unto the Lord belong And he by his great power hath set the world all them upon 9 He of his saints will keep the feet the wicked in darknesse Shall all be silent none by strength prevaile shall more or lesse 10 These fooles who do reject the Lord shall soone be broke to pieces With thunders shall he trouble them though they be great as Princes The Lord shall judge the earth below and strength give to his King The horne of his anointed he shall high exalt so reigne The Song of David which he sang to give thanks after that Nathan had promised him benefites and blessings but chiefly the Messiah to come of his seede 2 SAM 7. vers 18. O LORD my God now who am I that thou on me hast thought What is my house that thou in love me hitherto hast brought This was but small Lord in thy sight thou of thy servants house â—ast spoke for a great while to come as thou art righteous his truely Lord a mercy great I clearly now do see fter the maner of a man this seemes no way to be And what can David more to thee for this thy goodnesse say or thou Lord God who art most hie thy servant know'st alway 4 For thy wordes sake thou hast now done according to thy heart These things to make thy servants all thee know in every part 5 Thou Lord art great like thee is none no God is thee beside According to all things that we have heard on ev'ry side 7 What Nation one in all the earth is like thy people dear Even like Isra'l whom God redeem'd that he might them acquire To get a name and do great things for thy most holy land Before thy people which from Kings redeem'd are by thy hand 8 For to thy self thou hast confirm'd Isra'l to thee for ay A people and thou art become their Lord and God alway 9 What of thy servant and his house thou hast Lord spoken now As thou hast said it by thy grace establish and allow 10 And let thy name be magnified for ever and for ay Tâ—e Lord of Hosts is Isral's God let all the people say nd let the house of thy servant David for evermore e by thy mercy and thy might establish'd
thee before 11 For thou Lord God the Lord of hostes the God of Israel nto thy servant hast reveal'd thy mercies that excell will thee build an house thou saidst therefore I have this day â—und ev'n this prayer thus in my heart unto thee for to pray 12 And now O Lord that God thou art and thy wordes be most true nd thou this goodnesse promisde hast unto thy servants now Therefore be pleased for to blesse thy servants house alway hat it may so continue still before thee fast for ay or thou O Lord in mercy great hast spoken it to me ow let the house of thy servant for ever blessed be The Song of Isaiah Conceâ—ning the vineyard wherein Gods people is reproved for their barrennesse in good workes notwithstanding of all the paines were taken by the Prophets ISA. 5. vers 1. TO my belov'd I my belov'ds song will now sing with skill My welbelov'd a vineyard hath in a most fruitfull hill 2 He it did fence and gathred out its stones at every houre He planted it with choisest vine and in it built a Towre He al 's made a vine presse therein and look'd it should bring foorth Good grapes but foorth alwayes it brought wilde grapes of nothing worth 3 O ye indwellers of Salem and Judahs men alway Betwixt my vineyard and me now judge justly I you pray 4 What could I unto my vineyard do more then I have done While I for good grapes looked still it brought wilde grapes alone And now go to I will you tell what to my vineyard I Will do I will the hedge thereof away take by and by Then shall it all be eaten up I will break down its wall â—nd it by wilde beasts of the field shall down be troden all I also now will lay it wast it shall not pruned be â—or digged but men briars and thornes anone come up shall see 〈◊〉 also by my divine might the clouds all will command That they shall neither day nor night raine down upon the land â— For of the Lord the vineyard is the house of Israel And Judahs men his pleasant plant which others should excell And he for judgement looked well but O then by and by Oppression al 's for righteousnesse but O behold a cry A Song of thanks for the mercies of GOD. ISA. 12. vers 1. I Will thee praise O Lord though thoâ— with me most angry wast Thine anger is now turn'd away thou me comforted hast 2 Behold and well consider God is my salvation sure I will still trust and not afraid now will be lesse or more For the great Lord Jehovah is mâ— strength and al 's my song He my salvation is become to him it doth belong 3 Therefore out of salvations welles yee shall your selfe imploy Fine water in aboundance great to draw al wayes with joy 4 Then shall ye say praise ye the Lord and call upon his name His workes among the pople shew and high exalt his fame Unto the Lord sing thankfully for he hath things of worth Done by his mighty hand this well is know'n in all the earth Cry out and shout with a loud voice yee that indwellers be Of Zion Isra'ls holy one is great in midst of thee A Song inciting to confidence in God ISA. 26. vers 1. WEE have a city all made strong the Lord salvation will Appoint for to be mighty walles and bulwarkes ever still The glorious gates now open that the Nation void of sin Which constantly the truth doth keep may freely enter in Thou wilt him well preserve and keep in perfect peace to be Whose mind is still upon thee stay'd because he trustes in thee 4 For ever in the Lord trust yee for yee shall feele at length That in the Lord Jehovah is an everlasting strength 5 For he brings downe dwellers on high the lofty city low He layes it to the ground he brings even to the dust below 9 The foot shall basely tread it downe even the foot of the poore And the steps of the needy al 's shall ev'n the like procure 7 The justs way all is uprightnesse thou upright in thy wayes Of the just in the ballance thou dost weigh the path alwayes 8 Yea in thy judgements way O Lord we waited have for thee Our soules desires unto thy name and thy remembrance be 9 I with my soul have constantly desir'd thee in the night Yea with my sprite I early will thee seek with all my might â—or when thy judgements in the earth us teach for to discerne â—hen all the worlds inhabitants Gods righteousnesse will learne 10 Let favour great be shewed still unto the wicked man â—et for all that he righteousnesse will neither learne or can â—v'n in the land of uprightnesse unjustly will he deale â—nd of the Lord the Majestie behold no way he will 11 Lord when thy hand is lifted up they all refuse to see â—ut they shall see against their will though they do close their eye â—ecause thy people they envye asham'd they shall be sore â—ea the fire of thine enemies all shall quickly them devore 12 Lord thou wilt ordaine peace for us this still is in our thought â—or thou in us hast all our workes ev'n by thy finger wrought 13 O Lord besides thee other lords have rul'd us to our shame But by thee onely will we all make mention of thy name 14 Hence foorth these wicked shall not live who are now dead and slaine They at last all deceased are they shall not live againe Therefore thou visited hast them and them destroy'd alway And al 's hast made their memorie to perish quite away 15 The Nation well thou hast increasde thy glory shineth forth Thou hadst remov'd it far unto the ends of all the earth 16 Lord when they were in trouble they did visite thee anone They powr'd out prayers when thy rod was heavy them upon 17 Most like a woman at childe birth who in her pangs doth cry So have we Lord been in thy sight distressed by and by 18 We great with child have been in paine and have brought forth the winde To help out friends or foes defeat no strength at all we finde 19 Thy dead men shall most surely leave together well they all â—ith my dead body even revive and al 's arise they shall â—e that in dust dwell now awake for thy dew is indeed â—s dew of herbs and al 's the earth shall cast out all the dead 20 My people come now enter thou while as the time is fit â—nto thy chambers and with speede the doores about thee shute â—here for a little moment hide thy self far from the blast â—ntâ—ll the indigâ—ation great be safely over past 21 For lo the Lord out of his place doth come most speedily â—o punish all the men on earth for their iniquitie The earth shall al 's disclose the blood that in it did remaine And shall no more the meanes afford to cover close her
thousand they in armour bright Prepar'd in Battell ' gainst Isra'l to fight From Gibeah in that armie were then Expert in war seven hundred chosen men Left handed strong who to fight would not spare They with their sling stones well could hit an haire Against all these the Israelites had then In readinesse foure hundred thousand men They went to GOD first to seeke his counsell To know which of them first should give Battell To them this answere came from great JOVAH Unto the Battell first shall go Judah Then Israel right stoutly did begin To go to battell against Benjamin And they againe all in armour full bright Prepar'd them selves against Isra'l to fight Brave warriours all glistring with harnesse Threw downe that day Isra'l with great distresse Twentie six thousand joined with some few Unto Isra'l twentie two thousand slew To GOD againe they went to seek counsell If they should give to Benjamin battell Go up said GOD your anger to fulfill Go up why not if so it be your will The second day came Israel to fight Against Benjamin but were put to flight Of that great armie of Isral's children Destroyed down were eighteene thousand men Then Israel perceiving at the last Great numbers nought they ran to GOD by fasâ— They weeped sore and powred out their heart Then GOD was moved for to take their part Up up said God to war I you command To morrow I will put them in your hand On the third day Israel did begin A bloody battell against Benjamin At the first meeting which was with furie Of Isral's brave men were then slaine thirtie Then Benjamin uplifting his proud crist Cri'd they are smitten down as at the first Then Israel by GOD himself made wise Said Let us flie and draw them to high wayes At Baal Tamar they all in good array Prepar'd themselves to fight stoutly that day Liers in wait came out of hole and bore Ten thousand chosen made the battell sore The LORD Captaine this great host did command Therefore Benjamin that day could not stand Before behinde Israel did them hew Twentie five thousand and five score they slew The Use See what is lust consider how therefore Were slaine sixtie five thousand and five score Let men also when they their armies send Heere learne not on great numbers to depend THE GARDEN OF ZION RUTH Watered WIth famine prest these persons went anone Elimelech Naomi with Mahlon And Chilion their sons from Bethlehem To MOAB land that they might their remaine ELIMELECH Naomis best beloved At last by pale death was from her removed Then her two sons their hearts for to rejoice Of RUTH and ORPAH made their onely choisâ— But in their mariage this was a great spot These women were from the incest of Lot For Moab was against all divine order His mothers sonne and also his owne brother After ten yeares in mariage were past These two young men both died at the last Then poore Naomi deliv'red from dread Hearing how God had given to Isra'l bread Said to Orpah and Ruth her daughters dear Goe to your owne for I must hence retire The Lord in mercy deale with you kindlie As ye have dealt with the dead and with me The Lord in mercy work all to your best That with your husbands each of you finde rest Then kissing them they weeped bitterlie They said surely we will returne with thee Naomi said My daughters turne again For now with me ye can no more remaine The Lord mo sons on me doth not allow Which I for husbands might give unto you Then all did weepe then Orpah tooke her leâ— But to NAOMI RUTHS heart fast did cleave Not so Naomi said Behold Orpah Best thou returne with thy sister in law Intreat me not said Ruth I pray humblie For to returne from following after thee Both going lodging people and our God Shall all be one with thee mine whole abode I mind to make to live and die indeed With thee I minde and al 's to be buri'd From thee I will by no meanes now depart Nothing but death on earth shall us two part When she her saw so stedfastly persist She said to Ruth to speake more I desist Then they two went with little meanes with them Unto her city called BETHLEHEM Unto her many came where she abade Is this Naomi each to other said No more that name said she belongs to me Call me Marah because God bitterlie Hath dealt with me the LORD hath more and more Against me wrought and hath afflicted sore Beside her dwelt Booz a wealthie man A neere and deare friend of her dead husband The barley harv'st was Ruth desired then In great mister some ears of corne to gleane She went to fields God did direct her chose She came unto the reaperâ— of Booz When Booz knew Ruth the Moabitesse His melting heart did pitie her distresse Then did Booz speake friendly to her heart See from this field that thou do not depart When thou gleanest abide neere the women Concerning thee I shall direct the men That they thee touch not when thou art a thirst Go to the vessels and take of the best After that Ruth had such great fovour found She bowed humbly even unto the ground Saying thou art a rich man high in place And â— a stranger in thine eyes finde grace Then Booz said It hath been shown to me How kind thou hast beene unto Naomi The LORD of love who doth all things remark Reward thee full and recompence thy worke Then loving Booz in things of all sort Left no thing undoone that might Ruth comfort Both meet and drink she got while she did gleane Booz handfulls the reapers did ordaine To leave of purpose that for coming foorth Shee might returne home with some thing of worth When she had eaten she put up a part Which shee brought home with a most loving heart Unto Naomi who blest the most Hie Who had made her to finde such charitie Then said Naomi I will do my best Eor thee my daughter to seeke out a rest I trust my hope shall take some good effect Wash thee therefore and do as I direct Though thou be Ruth a silly widow poor Feare not to go unto his threshing floore When he hath ended both to drinke and eat Marke where he lyes last uncover his feet Waite well thy time and after lay thee downe And he will tell thee what is to be done As Naomi her daughter had informed All was by Ruth so in due time performed Then Booz to bed with a merry heart Went after Ruth past softly to her part She well resolv'd not fearing hurt or scorne Lay down with Booz neere an heap of corne At midnight houre when his first sleep did passe He was afraid and wondred who it was Who can this be Who art thou then he said I am said she even Ruth thine owne hand maid I come to thee in all humilitie My neere kinsman now spread thy skirt on
me Then Booz said the Lord his blessing send To thee whose kindnesse in the latter end To me an old man now doth most appeare Courage daughter thou need'st no thing to feare Thy praise is high above the common pitch Who seeks not young men whether poore or rich And now daughter see what thou most desires For I will doe each thing that thou requires In this city i'ts known to every man That thou art a good and vertuous woman The Lord he knowes thou art to me full deare But know this there is a kinsman more neere If he refuse and the neere match forsake I promise heere to wife I will thee take When Booz after did that man require His answere was that match I not desire Then Booz having ended all the strife Made choise of Ruth for to remaine his wife A little after all these things were done God blessed Ruth who bare to him a sonne His name OBED to many joy did bring He was grand father to David the King The Use Heere learne that Christ who of all men wâ— best Did come of Ruth who was from Lots incest Heere learne how God exalts the basest things From this poore gleaner did spring many Kingâ— THE GARDEN OF ZION The Bookes of Samuel ELKANAH The Lord is jealous THere was a man of faire mount Ephraim Whom Scripture calleth Elkanah by name His Hebrew name clearely doth signifie For some great thing JEHOVAHS jealousie Two wives he had Peninah and Hannah Yeerely he went to worship JEHOVAH In Shilo where the Arke of GOD did stand For so to do the LORD did them command Peninnah proud because of her children Provok'd Hannah because she was barren To her she was even like a trapping net Seeking alwayes to make her heart to fret While her husband perceiv'd her grief and smaâ— With these good wordes he did comfort her heâ— Why weepest thou for want of fair children I to thee shall be better then sons ten Then Hannah in great bitternesse of heart Went to Shiloh from GOD to ease her smart In her prayer she weeped bitterly She vow'd this vow unto the LORD most hie O LORD of Hoasts if thou now wilt indeed Looke on the grief of me thy poor handmaid If thou wilt give to thy servant a Son He shall be thine the rasor shall not come Upon his head he all his dayes shall be A faithfull servant consecrate to thee While she continued in prayers divine Priest Eli thought she had beene after wine How long said Eli wilt thou drunken be Arise arise and put thy wine from thee My LORD said she do not so of me think I am not drunk with wine nor such strong drinâ— In my great grief in anguish with great smart Before the LORD I have powr'd out my hearâ— Let not my LORD this thought in thy heart faâ— That thy handmaid is one of Belial From GOD I have been seeking some reliefe Who hath an eye to my complaint and grief Then Eli said with great affection The great GOD grant thee thy petition When this was said the woman went her way She eat her meat her face was fill'd with joy The son she sought from great GOD eternell From her asking was called Samuel This son her chear'd against Peninnahs strife Unto the Lord she lent him all his life The Use Let us learne heere our vaine pride to represse And not to grieve these that are in distresse Let us learne heere to judge in charitie Of others plungd in great adversitie Let us learne heere when ought doth us dismay To run to God and humbly him to pray The Song of Hannah MY heart rejoiceth in the Lord my horn exalt did he My mouth is greatly now inlarg'd for his goodnesse to me 2 There is none holy as the Lord there is none beside thee There is no rock that is like God our God the Lord most hie 3 Talke no more proudly as ye do speake not with arrogance For all our deeds the Lord doth weigh in his sacred ballance 4 The strong bowes of the mighty men are broken all at length And they that stumbled now are girt with force and divine strength 5 They that were full in plentie have hir'd out themselves for bread And they that were in great distresse from God have found remeed 6 The Lord by his strong arme doth kill and he also doth save He lifteth up he bringeth downe unto the stinking grave 7 By his power he doth make poore and also maketh rich He bringeth low and raiseth up unto a certaine pitch 8 He bringeth up out of the dust the poore from the dunghill To Princes seats the strong pillars of earth he makes stand still 9 He will keepe the feet of his saints the wicked in darknesse Shall all bee silent none by strength shall prevaile more or lesse 10 These fooles who do reject the Lord shall soone be broke to pieces With thunders shall he trouble them though they be great as Princes and strength give to his King His horne shall fill with holy oyle and make him long to reigne 15. ELI My God IN Isra'l Judge and Priest was old ELI My God his Hebrew name doth signifie He had two sons Hophni and Phineas Who did against the Lord greatly trespasse With greede and whooredome a most filthie vicâ— They made all men contemne Gods sacrifice Their father Eli in his words too smooth Preferr'd to God his sons in his reproof Therefore the Lord resolv'd them all to kill By fall in Battell he their blood did spill For Elis fault the Lord gave him this check He from his seat did fall and breake his neck As for his sons who in vice did excell They lost their life in a bloody battell The Use By Father Eli let all fathers heere Learne not to love too much their children dear Let Levits learne heere not to do or thinke That which may make Gods sacrifice to stinke 16 SAMUEL Asked of God Here is a Saint the Son of good Hannah Asked of God the most high Jehovah He was a man of a most holy heart He from the womb for God was set apart When he was young and Elis eyes were dim The Lord in Silo did appeare to him Foure times he cried unto him Samuel Before he knew that it was th' Eternall To him the Lord there great plagues did reveale Against Eli which he did not conceale My plagues said God I will upon him spend When I begin I al 's will make an end Him will I judge and his two sons most vile Against his house I will my wrath reveale After all this young Samuel went to bed Fearing to tell t' ELI what God had said The morning come said Eli to Samuel What God hath said see that thou now me tell But if thou faine if that thou doe not so God so to thee doe and much more also Then good Samuel told to him every whit Nothing from ELI did he keep secret When this old
considering well a stone binds in a sling â— is he that gives honour to a fool in any thing As thornes go up in drunkards hands which cannot them discerne â— is a parable in the mouth of fooles that can not learne 10 The great God that all things hath form'd by his hand that is hie Doth both reward the fool and these that great transgressours be 11 As a vile dog returneth to his vomite filthily So to his foly doth a fool returne most speedily 12 Seest thou a man in his conceit that seemeth wise to be There is more hope in any fool then in him is to see 13 A sloathfull man that will not work saith there is in the way A Lion yea in all the streets a Lion is alway 14 As doth the doore upon his hings now turning here now there So doth the sloathfull on his bed which doth his meanes empaire 15 The sloathfull in his bosome hides his hand it with great paine Doth grieve him much even from his mouth to bring it back againe 16 The sluggard in his own conceit doth wiser seeme to be Then seven men that can render well a reason most wisely 17 The passer by that medleth with strife which doth not belong â—o him is like one that doth take a dog by the eares long 18 As a mad man in furie great who sure no judgement hath Who casteth with great violence firebrands with arrowes death 19 So is the man that by deceit his neighbour doth extort â—nd after saith without remorse am I not but in sport 20 Where no wood is the burning fire there goeth out quickly 〈◊〉 where no talebearer there is the strife doth cease to be 21 As coales are unto burning coales and wood to flamming fire 〈◊〉 al 's to kindle strife it is a wicked mans desire 22 The wordes of a talebearer are as wounds and they do go â—own in the bellys inner parts with miserie and wo. 23 The burning lips and wicked heart how ever it be most closse Are like a potsheard which is well covered with silver drosse 24 The man dissembleth with his lips that doth another hate Within him as a treasure he doth still lay up deceit 95 Believe him not at all when he dissembling speaketh fair For seven abominations then within his heart there are 26 Whos 's hatred alwayes by deceit is covered more and more His wickednesse shall sure be shew'd th' assembly all before 27 Who so by fraud doth dig a pit shall surely fall therein And he that al 's doth roll a stone it will returne on him 28 A lying tongue hates all these that afflicted are thereby And a mouth flattering worketh sure a ruine by and by Chap. 27. â—N what shall on the morrow be boast not in any way â—or what changes thou dost not know may fall out in a day 2 Let mouths of other men thee praise but let thine silent be â—et strangers speake but let thy lips be closely keept by thee 3 A stone is heavy and sand is weighty like the lead â—ut a vaine fooles wrath then them both more heavy is indeed 4 Wrath is most cruell anger al 's brings courage by and by â—ut who is able by his strength to stand before envy 5 Rebuke open hath power great mens sins for to remove Though it seeme harsh it better is then any secret love 6 The wounds all of a worthy friend most faithfull are alway â—ut kisses of an enemy are deceitfull every way 7 The soul that 's full doth loath at last the hony comb to eat But to the soul that hungry is a bitter thing is sweet 8 As a bird foolish from her nest doth wander a great space So is a man that carelesly doth wander from his place 9 Perfume and ointment doth rejoice the heart and cheare the minde So doth the hearty counsell from the sweetnesse of a friend 10 Thine owne friend and thy fathers friend forsake thou not also In trouble to thy brothers house see that thou cease to go For better is a neighbour neere in the time of our smart Then he that is a brother call'd but is far off in heart 11 My son be wise and make my heart most joyfull for to be That I may have to answere him that proud reprocheth me 12 A prudent man forseeing ill him hids till it be past â—â—t these that simple be passe on and punish'd are at last 13 Take his garment that strangers for is bold to be surtie â—nd take a pledge of him that for a strange woman will be 14 He that flattring with a loud voice his friend doth earely blesse 〈◊〉 shall be by a prudent man ev'n counted for a curse 15 On all sides water dropping in a very rainie day 〈◊〉 a contentious woman are alike in every way 16 Who hideth her the wind also from blowing hide he may â—â—d the ointment of his right hand which doth it selfe bewray 17 As yron sharpneth at all times the yron or the steel 〈◊〉 kind man the countenance of his friend sharpneth well 18 Who so the fig-tree keepeth fast he on its fruit shall feed â—he that on his master waits shall honour'd be indeed 19 As in the water clear alwayes face answreth unto face So the heart of a man to man in every time and place 20 Hell and destruction are not full but still do cry to bring So mans eyes are not satisfied with any worldly thing 21 As fining pots for silver are and furnace for the gold So is a man unto his praise as men may well behold 22 Though in a morter thou a fool among wheat shouldest bray Yet will not his great foolishnesse from him depart away 23 Be diligent to know right well of all thy flocks the state And to thy heards most carefully both earely looke and late 24 For riches though greatly desir'd are not for ever sure To every generation doth the crowne alwayes endure 25 The hay appeareth and also the tender grasse so faire â—â—d herbs upon the mountaines high are gathred all with care 6 The wooll of lambs are for thy clothes which is a good device â—â—d the goats skipping up and downe are of thy field the price 7 And thou shalt have goats milk enough even for thy dayly food â—or thy houshold and for the life even of thy maidens good Chap. 28. THE wicked when no man pursues doth flee to a strong hold But all the men that righteous are are as a Lion bold 2 For the transgression of a land men many Princes see But by wise men the state thereof shall sure prolonged be 3 A poor man that most greedy doth oppresse the poor and small â—s like unto a sweeping raine which leaves no food at all 4 These that forsake the law do praise and wicked men commend But such as carefull keep the law with them alway contend 5 Evill men do not perceive at all the judgement of GODS hand But they that dayly seek the
LORD do all things understand 6 Much better is the poor man that walks in his uprightnesse Then he that is perverse in heart though he swimme in richesse 7 Who well doth keep the Law of GOD is a son that is wise But he that likes the riotous men his father doth despise 8 He that his substance doth increase by gaine unjust most sure He shall it gather for the man that pitie will the poor 9 He that from GODS Law turnes his ear and will not hear gladlie His prayer abomination vile unto the LORD shall be 10 Who makes the righteous go astray he shall with great distresse Fall in his own pit but the just shall good things still possesse 11 The rich man in his own conceit is wise without all doubt â—ut the poor that well understands doth clearly search him out 12 When righteous men with heart rejoice great glory is to see â—ut when ill men to honour rise then good men hidden be 13 He that cov'reth his sins shall not well prosper in his dayes â—ut who shall them with heart forsake shall mercie have alwayes 14 Most happie he that feares alway GOD shall send him relief â—ut he that hardneth still his heart shall fall into mischief 15 As is a roaring Lion and as is a ranging Bear 〈◊〉 over a poor people doth a ruler ill appear 16 A Prince that wanteth wit is an oppressour in his wayes â—ut he that hateth covetousnesse shall well prolong his dayes 17 A man that by his violence doth any person slay By justice shall flee to the pit see that no man him stay 18 Who so in life walks uprightly that man he surely shall Be saved but he that in his heart perverse at once shall fall 19 He that painfull his land doth till shall of bread have plentie But he that followes persons vaine shall come to povertie 20 A faithfull man shall still abound with blessings permanent But he that hasteth to be rich shall not be innocent 21 To have respect of persons it is ill both more and lesse For for a peece of bread that man will certainly transgresse 22 He that makes hast for to be rich hath doubtlesse an ill eye And thinketh not that him upon shall come great povertie 23 He that a man rebuketh shall after more favour get Then he that falsly with the tongue to flatter still is set 24 Who so his parents robs and saith it is no fault at all The same of a destroyer we may the companion call 25 He that is of a hauty heart stirres up debate and strife But he that puts his trust in God shall be made fat in life 26 He that doth trust in his owne hâ—aâ—t most foolish is surely But he who wisely so doth walk shall well delivered be 27 He that doth give unto the poore shall not have any lake But he that hids his eyes shall have great curses on his back 28 When wicked ones do rise men hide themselves most secretly But when they die the righteous folk increase aboundantly Chap. 29. HE who reprov'd often his neck doth harden stubbornly Shall suddenly be all destroy'd without all remedy 2 When good men have authoritie the people all rejoice But when the wicked rule doth beare then is a mourning voice 3 Who wisdome loves he joyfull makes his fathers countenance But who with harlots still abides doth spend his whole substance 4 The King that 's wise by judgement doth establish well the land But it is overthrowen by him that hath a bribing hand 5 A man that with his flattring wordes his neighbour still doth feed He for his feet in all his wayes a net doth surely spread 6 In the transgression of ill men there surely is a snare But righteous men sing and rejoice with joy and gladnesse rare 7 The righteous man considreth well the poor mans cause apart But wicked men to know it once regard not in their heart 8 Men scornefull bring a city in a fearfull snare alway But wise men through their wisdome great do turne all wrath away 9 If wise wen with a foolish man into contention fall Whether he rage or yet he laugh there is no rest at all 10 The blood thirsty doth hate the man that upright is in life But the just man contrarily seeks to preserve his life 11 A foolish man doth utter all his mind most foolishly But a wise man till afterwards it keeps in cunningly 12 If eare to lies a ruler give which do mens names defame His servants all to slanders al 's their tongues will surely frame 13 The poor and the deceitfull man by the LORDS power divine Together meet the LORD on both doth make his sunne to shine 14 The King upright in all his wayes that judgeth faithfullie The poore his throne for evermore shall sure establish'd be 15 Rods and reproofs great wisdome give but which is worthy blame A foolish childe left to him self his mother brings to shame 16 When wicked men are multiplied transgression doth increase But righteous men shall see them fall in danger and distresse 17 Correct thy son and he shall give thee rest both day and night Yea prudent he unto thy soul shall surely give delight 18 The people where no vision is do perish speedily But he that well thâ— law doth keep most happy sure is he 19 Servants corrected will not be by wordes that men can say For though they well do understand yet will they not obey 20 A man most sudden in his wordes and hasty dost thou see There is more hope of any fool nor of him there can be 21 He that a servant from a childe up brings too tenderly Shall at the length have him most sure as his own son to be 22 An angry man doth strife stir up with a most troubled sound Men furious in transgressions great do alwayes still abound 23 A mans own pride shall bring him low under his neighbours feet But honour shall uphold alwayes the man of humble sprite 24 Who so is partner with a theef his own soul hates alway He doth hear men urg'd with great oathes and doth them not bewray 25 The fear of man doth bring a snare but who for to endure In safety trusteth in the LORD he shall be safe and sure 26 The Rulers favour many seek which may them help afford But the judgement of Judges doth depend upon the LORD 27 The man unjust abhorred is by the just man alway The wicked is even loth'd by him that 's upright in the way Chap. 30. WIse Agurs words son of Jakeh even the sweet prophesie The man spake unto Ithiel and Vcall certainly 2 Surely I am more brutish then all other men can be And understanding of a man I have not as ye see 3 I neither wisdome good did learne which wise men well do teach Nor yet to holy knowledge I am able for to reach 4 Who hath ascended up to heaven Or who from thence againe Descended