Psalms 100:1

Commentary on Psalm 100:1 (KJV)

Psalm 100 is unique among the Psalms, being the only one explicitly titled "A Psalm of praise." This short but powerful psalm serves as an enthusiastic invitation to worship the LORD, setting a tone of universal and joyful adoration. Verse 1 immediately establishes this theme with a commanding call to action.

Context and Setting

The superscription, "A Psalm of praise," immediately signals its purpose: to extol the greatness and goodness of God. Unlike many psalms that express lament, confession, or instruction, Psalm 100 is a pure and unadulterated call to worship. It's often associated with temple worship and communal thanksgiving, likely sung as worshippers approached the temple gates. The phrase "all ye lands" significantly broadens the scope of this praise beyond Israel, pointing to a universal worship that transcends national boundaries, a theme echoed in prophetic literature and ultimately fulfilled in the New Testament's global outreach.

Key Themes and Messages

• Universal Worship: The command "all ye lands" (or "all the earth") emphasizes that God's dominion and worthiness of praise extend to every corner of the globe and every people group. This global invitation foreshadows the New Testament's vision of every tribe, tongue, people, and nation worshipping God.
• Joyful and Enthusiastic Praise: The instruction to "Make a joyful noise" highlights the desired attitude in worship—one of exuberance, enthusiasm, and heartfelt celebration, rather than solemnity or mere duty.
• The LORD as the Object of Praise: The focus is singularly on "the LORD" (Yahweh), the covenant God of Israel, revealing His personal and relational nature, and His supreme authority over all creation.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Make a joyful noise" translates the Hebrew word rua' (or teru'ah when used as a noun). This word doesn't merely imply a pleasant sound but often refers to a loud shout, a blast of a trumpet, a triumphant acclamation, or a war cry. It suggests a boisterous, fervent, and uninhibited expression of joy and adoration. It's not about musicality as much as it is about heartfelt, enthusiastic expression. This enthusiastic call to worship is echoed throughout the Psalms, urging believers to come before the LORD with singing and shouts of joy.

The term "LORD," capitalized in the KJV, represents the Hebrew tetragrammaton YHWH (Yahweh), God's personal and covenantal name, emphasizing His unique relationship with His people and His eternal, self-existent nature.

Practical Application

Psalm 100:1 serves as a timeless reminder for believers today:

1. Worship is Universal: Our praise should recognize God's sovereignty over all nations and peoples. We are part of a global family called to worship Him.
2. Worship is Joyful: We are encouraged to approach God with enthusiasm and heartfelt joy, not out of obligation but from a deep appreciation for who He is and what He has done.
3. Worship is Active: "Make a joyful noise" is an active command. It calls for intentional, outward expressions of praise that engage our whole being. Our worship should be vibrant and alive, reflecting the living God we serve.