King James Version

Today, May 2, 2011, is the 400th anniversary of the King James Version of the Bible.  It's influence on the English language has been immeasurable.  Below is a sample.

Psalm 149

Praise ye the Lord. 

Sing unto the Lord a new song, 

   and his praise in the congregation of saints.

Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: 

   let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.

Let them praise his name in the dance: 

   let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp.

For the Lord taketh pleasure in his people: 

   he will beautify the meek with salvation.

Let the saints be joyful in glory: 

   let them sing aloud upon their beds.

Let the high praises of God be in their mouth, 

   and a two-edged sword in their hand;

To execute vengeance upon the heathen, 

   and punishments upon the people;

To bind their kings with chains, 

   and their nobles with fetters of iron;

To execute upon them the judgment written: 

   this honour have all his saints. 

Praise ye the Lord.