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Psalms117

Psalms 117 is a brief but powerful call to universal praise. It exhorts all nations and peoples to laud the LORD. The psalm provides two primary reasons for this global adoration: the greatness of God's merciful kindness towards humanity, and the eternal endurance of His truth. It concludes by reiterating the command to praise the LORD.

Call to Universal Praise

1
Praise the LORD, all you nations! Extol him, all you peoples! ​
2
For his loving kindness is great toward us. The LORD’s faithfulness endures forever. Praise the LORD! ​

Study Notes for Psalms 117

Verse 1

This psalm, the shortest chapter in the Bible, serves as a powerful doxology calling all humanity—'nations' and 'people'—to worship the LORD. The universal scope anticipates the inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant plan, a theme later highlighted by the Apostle Paul (Romans 15:11).

Verse 2

The reasons for this global praise are God's enduring character traits: 'merciful kindness' (Hebrew *hesed*, meaning steadfast love or covenant loyalty) and his eternal 'truth' (*emeth*, faithfulness). These attributes assure the worshipper that God’s promises and commitments are reliable and everlasting.

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