Psalm 45's title says it is For the Chief Musician, set to The Lilies, a contemplation by the sons of Korah, and a wedding song. It is the only psalm the title calls a wedding song. The text does not name the king or his bride. The singer begins, My heart overflows with a noble theme. I recite my verses for the king. My tongue is like the pen of a skillful writer. He praises the king's beauty and speech: You are the most excellent of the sons of men. Grace has anointed your lips, therefore God has blessed you forever.
The king is pictured as a warrior. Strap your sword on your thigh, O mighty one. He rides on victoriously on behalf of truth, humility, and righteousness. His arrows are sharp, and nations fall under him. Then come striking words: Your throne, God, is forever and ever. A scepter of equity is the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness, and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness above your fellows. In the New Testament, the book of Hebrews quotes these verses to show that the Son, Jesus, is greater than the angels (Hebrews 1:8-9).
The second half honors the bride. Listen, daughter, consider, and turn your ear. Forget your own people, and also your father's house. She is to honor the king, for he is your lord. The princess inside is all glorious. Her clothing is interwoven with gold. She is led to the king with companions, and with gladness and rejoicing they enter the king's palace. The song ends with a promise: I will make your name to be remembered in all generations. Therefore the peoples shall give you thanks forever and ever.