translated :: The Canticle of Brother Sun

[Fr[ater] Fra[n]ciscu[s] (S. Benedetto/Subiaco, ca. 1224)]

by Francis of Assisi
Most high, all-powerful, good Lord,
yours are the praises, glory, honor and every blessing,
to you alone are they to be referred,
and no human is worthy to name you.

Be praised, Lord my God, because of all your creatures,
and especially on account of honorable brother Sun,
who makes the day and illumines us by night;
he is handsome and radiant and of great splendor,
and he bears your seal, Lord.

My Lord be praised on account of sister Moon and the stars,
whom he created clear and beautiful in the sky.

My Lord be praised because of brother Wind,
air, cloud, serenity and on account of all the seasons,
through which he serves food for all creatures.

My Lord be praised on account of sister Water,
who is very useful, humble, precious and pure.

My Lord be praised because of brother Fire,
he shines through any night;
he is roseate, golden, invincible and ardent.

My Lord be praised on account of our mother Earth,
who sustains and nourishes us
and produces various fruits
and flowers and herbs of many colors.

Be praised, my Lord, because of those, who for your love have forgiven offenses,
and have patiently sustained tribulation and infirmity.
They are happy, who endure in peace,
for they will receive a crown from you, O most high.

Be praised, my Lord, on account of our sister Death,
whom no one living can evade.

Woe to them, who die in mortal sin!
They are happy, who in the hour of their death find themselves
conformed to your most holy will,
for the second death will not harm them.

Praise and bless my Lord, gratify
and serve Him, all creatures, with great humility!

::In the year of our Lord 1223::

Latin text from BIBLIOTHECA AUGUSTANA.