Psalms 97
Read Psalms 97 (WEB)+
1Yahweh reigns! Let the earth rejoice! Let the multitude of islands be glad! 2Clouds and darkness are around him. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne. 3A fire goes before him, and burns up his adversaries on every side. 4His lightning lights up the world. The earth sees, and trembles. 5The mountains melt like wax at the presence of Yahweh, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. 6The heavens declare his righteousness. All the peoples have seen his glory. 7Let all them be shamed who serve engraved images, who boast in their idols. Worship him, all you gods! 8Zion heard and was glad. The daughters of Judah rejoiced, because of your judgments, Yahweh. 9For you, Yahweh, are most high above all the earth. You are exalted far above all gods. 10You who love Yahweh, hate evil. He preserves the souls of his saints. He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked. 11Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart. 12Be glad in Yahweh, you righteous people! Give thanks to his holy Name.
World English Bible (public domain)
“"The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!"”
Psalms 97:1
Summary
Psalm 97 is a celebratory song that emphasizes the Lord's reign over the earth, portraying His power and righteousness. It begins with a powerful declaration that the Lord reigns, which causes the earth and many coastlands to rejoice. The imagery of clouds and thick darkness surrounding Him highlights the mystery of God's presence, while righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne. The psalmist describes how God's presence leads to the destruction of His foes, as fire goes before Him and consumes His adversaries. Nature itself responds to God's majesty, with mountains melting like wax before the Lord of all the earth. The heavens proclaim His righteousness, affirming His supreme authority and inspiring all people to see His glory.
Key Themes
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