43 The pride of the heavenly heights is the clear sky,

the appearance of heaven, in the spectacle of its glory.

2 The sun, when it appears, bringing tidings as it rises,

is a marvellous instrument, the work of the Most High.

3 At noon, it dries up the land.

Who can stand against its burning heat?

4 A man tending a furnace is in burning heat,

but the sun three times more, burning up the mountains,

breathing out fiery vapours,

and sending out bright beams, it blinds the eyes.

5 Great is the master who made it.

At his word, he hastens on its course.

6 The moon marks the changing seasons,

declares times, and is a sign for the world.

7 From the moon is the sign of feast days,

a light that wanes when it completes its course.

8 The month is called after its name,

increasing wonderfully in its changing—

an instrument of the army on high,

shining in the structure of heaven,

9 the beauty of heaven, the glory of the stars,

an ornament giving light in the highest places of the master.

10 At the word of the Holy One, they will stand in due order.

They won’t faint in their watches.

11 Look at the rainbow, and praise him who made it.

It is exceedingly beautiful in its brightness.

12 It encircles the sky with its glorious circle.

The hands of the Most High have stretched it out.