1 What a stiff rebellious house Was Jacob's ancient race! False to their own most solemn vows, And to their Maker's grace.
2 They broke the covenant of his love, And did his laws despise, Forgot the works he wrought to prove His power before their eyes.
3 They saw the plagues on Egypt light, From his revenging hand: What dreadful tokens of his might Spread o'er the stubborn land!
4 They saw him cleave the mighty sea, And march'd in safety thro', With watery walls to guard their way, Till they had 'scap'd the foe.
5 A wondrous pillar mark'd the road, Compos'd of shade and light; By day it prov'd a sheltering cloud, A leading fire by night.
6 He from the rock their thirst supply'd; The gushing waters fell, And ran in rivers by their side, A constant miracle.
7 Yet they provok'd the Lord most high, And dar'd distrust his hand; "Can he with bread our host supply "Amidst this desert land?"
8 The Lord with indignation heard, And caus'd his wrath to flame His terrors ever stand prepar'd To vindicate his Name.