It is a staple of collegiate and professional choirs and is frequently performed at significant events, such as university commencements.

The anthem emphasizes the character and rewards of a just ruler who governs with "fear of God". The lyrics of the anthem are as follows:

"The Last Words of David" is a renowned choral anthem composed by (1899–1984) in 1949 . It is widely considered one of the most significant works in the American choral tradition, second in popularity only to Thompson's own Alleluia . Origin and Context

"He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth,even a morning without clouds;as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.Alleluia. Amen." Musical Style

The text is taken from 2 Samuel 23:3–4 , which the Bible identifies as the final words of King David.

You can find various performances and scores through the E.C. Schirmer Publishing or MuseScore .

The piece was commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra to honor conductor Serge Koussevitzky for his 25th year of directorship.