State of Maryland: “As with a shield”

On this day in 1788, Maryland, one of the original 13 colonies and also known as “The Old Line State,” become the seventh state in the Union.

First, here is the opening of the “Declaration of Rights” from the Constitution of Maryland:

“We, the People of the State of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty, and taking into our serious consideration the best means of establishing a good Constitution in this State for the sure foundation and more permanent security thereof, declare… .”

The Shield and the Psalm

Latin text encircles the seal.
“Scuto bonæ voluntatis tuæ coronasti nos” translates to: “With favor Wilt Thou Compass Us as with a Shield.” 

Psalm 5:12 inspired that text. It reads, “For you bless the righteous, O Lord; you cover him with favor as with a shield.”