Psalms 22:27

KJV

All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.

KJV (with Strong's)

All the ends {H657} of the world {H776} shall remember {H2142} and turn {H7725} unto the LORD {H3068}: and all the kindreds {H4940} of the nations {H1471} shall worship {H7812} before {H6440} thee.

Complete Jewish Bible

All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to ADONAI; all the clans of the nations will worship in your presence.

Berean Standard Bible

All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD. All the families of the nations will bow down before Him.

American Standard Version

All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn unto Jehovah; And all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 22:27 marks a profound pivot in a psalm renowned for its prophetic depiction of suffering, transitioning from the agony of the individual to a glorious vision of universal worship and recognition of God's sovereignty. This verse declares that all peoples, from every corner of the earth and every family lineage, will remember the Lord, turn to Him in repentance and faith, and ultimately bow in adoration, signifying the global triumph of God's redemptive work.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 22 opens with a harrowing cry of dereliction and intense suffering, famously echoed by Jesus on the cross ([Psalms 22:1](/psalms/22-1 "Psalm 22:1 - My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?")). The preceding verses ([Psalms 22:1-21](/psalms/22-1 "Psalm 22:1-21 - A Psalm of Suffering")) detail profound physical and emotional anguish, ridicule, and a sense of abandonment. However, a significant shift occurs around [Psalms 22:22](/psalms/22-22 "Psalm 22:22 - From Lament to Praise"), where the psalmist begins to express praise and confidence in God's deliverance, moving from personal lament to public declaration of God's faithfulness. Verse 27, therefore, is not an isolated statement but the climactic culmination of this shift, projecting the outcome of the psalmist's (or the Messiah's) suffering and vindication onto a global scale. It is the ultimate consequence of the deliverance celebrated in the preceding verses, expanding the scope of God's redemptive work from the individual to all humanity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While traditionally attributed to David, Psalms 22, like many psalms, reflects the ancient Israelite understanding of God's universal dominion, even amidst their particular covenant relationship. The concept of God's fame extending "to the ends of the earth" was present in Israelite theology, often linked to the Abrahamic covenant's promise of blessing "all the families of the earth" ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - The Abrahamic Covenant")). The psalm's shift from individual suffering to universal praise aligns with the pattern of many lament psalms, which often begin with distress but conclude with expressions of trust, praise, or prophetic hope. The "nations" (Hebrew: *goyim*) typically referred to the Gentile peoples outside of Israel, and the idea of them turning to the God of Israel was a significant prophetic expectation, underscoring God's ultimate plan for all humanity, not just a select nation.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within Psalms 22 and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Messianic Prophecy**, as the suffering described earlier in the psalm is widely understood to prefigure Christ, and thus the resulting global worship is a direct consequence of His redemptive work. Secondly, it highlights **God's Universal Sovereignty and Redemptive Plan**, demonstrating that His dominion is not limited to Israel but extends to all peoples. This theme is echoed throughout the Old Testament, for example, in [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - Light to the Gentiles"), which speaks of God's servant being a light to the Gentiles. Thirdly, it emphasizes **Suffering Leading to Glory**, illustrating that the deep anguish endured (as described in [Psalms 22:1-21](/psalms/22-1 "Psalm 22:1-21 - A Psalm of Suffering")) is not an end in itself but a necessary prelude to a glorious, worldwide recognition of God. Finally, the verse articulates the theme of **Global Worship and Ingathering**, envisioning a future where all "kindreds of the nations" will worship the Lord, a vision that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the New Testament's portrayal of the Church and the heavenly multitude from every tribe and tongue ([Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - The Multitude from Every Nation")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Ends of the world (Hebrew, _qetsot 'arets'_):** This phrase literally means "extremities of the earth" or "ends of the land." It is a hyperbole used to convey the uttermost parts of the globe, emphasizing a comprehensive, geographical universality. It leaves no region untouched, signifying that God's renown and the response to Him will extend to the farthest reaches imaginable.
* **Kindreds of the nations (Hebrew, _mishpachot goyim'_):** "Kindreds" (*mishpachot*) refers to families, clans, or peoples, while "nations" (*goyim*) is the standard Hebrew term for Gentiles or non-Israelite peoples. Together, these terms emphasize an ethnic and relational universality, meaning that every distinct people group, every family lineage, regardless of their cultural or national identity, will participate in this global turning and worship.
* **Remember and turn (Hebrew, _yizkeru v'yashuvu'_):** "Remember" (*zakhar*) implies not just a cognitive recall but an active acknowledgment and mindful consideration of God's works, character, and covenant. "Turn" (*shuv*) is a foundational biblical term for repentance, signifying a radical change of direction, a turning away from sin and idols, and a turning toward God in faith and obedience. The combination suggests a profound, transformative recognition and reorientation of life toward the Lord.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD:"** This clause declares a future global awakening. It prophesies that humanity, from the very edges of the earth, will not merely acknowledge God's existence but will actively recall His mighty acts, His character, and His redemptive work. This remembrance will lead to a profound spiritual transformation, a corporate act of repentance, where people turn away from their former ways and allegiances to embrace the one true God, the LORD (Yahweh), in faith and submission. This turning signifies a shift in allegiance and a reorientation of life toward divine truth.
* **"and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee."** This second clause expands on the first, specifying the ultimate outcome of this global remembrance and turning: universal worship. "Kindreds of the nations" emphasizes that every distinct ethnic and cultural group will participate. "Worship before thee" (referring to God) signifies acts of adoration, reverence, and homage. This is not a forced submission but a willing, heartfelt acknowledgment of God's supremacy and worthiness, indicating a future where God's glory is universally recognized and celebrated by all peoples.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 22:27 employs several powerful **Literary Devices**. The most prominent is **Parallelism**, specifically synonymous parallelism, where the two clauses ("All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD" and "all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee") express similar ideas using different but reinforcing imagery. "Ends of the world" parallels "kindreds of the nations," both emphasizing universality, while "remember and turn unto the LORD" parallels "worship before thee," both describing a spiritual response to God. This repetition with variation intensifies the message of global reach and comprehensive spiritual transformation. The verse also utilizes **Hyperbole** with phrases like "all the ends of the world," which is an exaggeration for emphasis, underscoring the truly global and exhaustive nature of the prophecy. Furthermore, the entire verse functions as **Prophecy**, foretelling a future event of immense theological significance. Finally, the verse marks a dramatic **Shift in Tone** within the psalm, moving from the depths of lament and suffering (in the earlier verses) to a triumphant declaration of God's universal reign and the resulting global worship, highlighting the redemptive arc of the psalm.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse stands as a powerful testament to God's ultimate redemptive purpose, transcending the boundaries of Israel to encompass all humanity. It underscores the biblical truth that God's plan of salvation is not limited to one nation but is designed to draw all peoples to Himself. The universal scope of this prophecy is a foundational element of biblical theology, demonstrating God's desire for all to know Him and worship Him. It connects the suffering of the righteous (often interpreted as the Messiah) directly to the expansion of God's kingdom and the ingathering of the nations, revealing that divine suffering is not an end but a means to universal glorification. This vision of global worship fuels the missionary impulse and reminds believers of the inevitable triumph of God's reign.

* [Isaiah 45:22-23](/isaiah/45-22 "Isaiah 45:22-23 - Look to Me and Be Saved")
* [Zechariah 14:9](/zechariah/14-9 "Zechariah 14:9 - The Lord Will Be King Over All the Earth")
* [Revelation 7:9-10](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9-10 - A Multitude from Every Nation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 22:27 offers profound hope and a compelling call to action for believers today. It reminds us that despite the brokenness, division, and spiritual darkness that often characterize our world, God's ultimate plan is for universal recognition and worship. This vision should ignite within us a renewed passion for missions and evangelism, knowing that our efforts to share the Gospel contribute to this grand, divine purpose. It encourages us to pray fervently for the nations, for the "kindreds" who have yet to hear, and for a global turning to the Lord. Furthermore, it prompts personal reflection: Have I truly "turned unto the LORD" in every area of my life? Does my worship reflect the comprehensive sovereignty of God over all creation and over my own heart? This verse assures us that God's global reign is inevitable, and His glory will be known by all, providing immense encouragement to persevere in faith and witness.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the suffering described earlier in Psalms 22 inform your understanding of the universal worship prophesied in verse 27?**
* **What does it mean for you personally to "remember and turn unto the LORD" in your daily life?**
* **How does the vision of "all the kindreds of the nations" worshipping God impact your perspective on global missions and cultural diversity within the church?**
* **In what ways can you actively participate in or support the fulfillment of this prophecy in your sphere of influence?**

### FAQ
**How does this verse relate to the suffering described earlier in Psalms 22?**

Answer: Psalms 22:27 is the glorious outcome and ultimate vindication of the intense suffering described in the psalm's opening verses ([Psalms 22:1-21](/psalms/22-1 "Psalm 22:1-21 - A Psalm of Suffering")). The psalmist's (and prophetically, the Messiah's) anguish, abandonment, and humiliation are not in vain. Instead, they serve as the necessary prelude to a worldwide recognition of God's power and a universal turning to Him. The suffering is the means by which God's redemptive work is accomplished, leading to the expansion of His kingdom and the ingathering of all peoples to worship Him. It illustrates the principle that through suffering comes ultimate glory and universal impact.

**What is the significance of "remembering" and "turning" unto the LORD?**

Answer: "Remembering" (Hebrew: *zakhar*) is more than just recalling facts; it implies a deep, active acknowledgment of God's character, His covenant faithfulness, and His mighty deeds throughout history. It's a mindful recognition that leads to a response. "Turning" (Hebrew: *shuv*) is a core biblical concept of repentance, signifying a complete reorientation of one's life. It means turning away from sin, idolatry, and self-reliance, and turning towards God in faith, obedience, and submission. Together, "remember and turn" signifies a profound spiritual transformation, a change of heart and direction that results in a relationship with God and leads to genuine worship. This is the essence of salvation, as seen in passages like [Acts 3:19](/acts/3-19 "Acts 3:19 - Repent and Turn to God").

**Does this verse imply universal salvation, where everyone will eventually be saved?**

Answer: While Psalms 22:27 speaks of a universal turning and worship, it does not necessarily imply universal salvation in the sense that every single individual will be saved regardless of their personal faith. Instead, it prophesies that God's dominion will be universally acknowledged, and that people from *all* nations and ethnic groups will come to know and worship Him. This vision is fulfilled in the establishment of the Church, which comprises believers from every tribe, tongue, people, and nation ([Revelation 7:9](/revelation/7-9 "Revelation 7:9 - A Multitude from Every Nation")), and ultimately in the eschatological reality where every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus as Lord ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). It emphasizes the *scope* of God's redemptive plan (all peoples) rather than suggesting that every single person will automatically be saved.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 22:27 finds its profoundest Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The preceding verses of Psalms 22 vividly describe a suffering servant, whose cries of dereliction ([Psalms 22:1](/psalms/22-1 "Psalm 22:1 - My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?")) and physical torment ([Psalms 22:14-17](/psalms/22-14 "Psalm 22:14-17 - Bones Out of Joint, Hands and Feet Pierced")) are directly echoed in the crucifixion narrative of Jesus. It is precisely through this unparalleled suffering, culminating in His death and resurrection, that the universal turning and worship prophesied in verse 27 become possible. The cross, initially a symbol of shame and defeat, is revealed as the means by which God draws all people to Himself, as Jesus Himself declared in [John 12:32](/john/12-32 "John 12:32 - I Will Draw All People to Myself"). His ultimate vindication through the resurrection and ascension established His universal Lordship, leading to the Great Commission to make disciples of "all nations" ([Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission")). The global Church, comprising believers from every "kindred of the nations," stands as a living testament to this fulfillment, a foretaste of the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow")). Thus, the suffering of the Messiah in Psalms 22 is not an end but the necessary means for the ultimate, global worship of God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 86:9

All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify thy name.

Isaiah 45:22

Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else.

Psalms 2:8

Ask of me, and I shall give [thee] the heathen [for] thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth [for] thy possession.

Revelation 7:9

After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;

Revelation 7:12

Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, [be] unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.

Isaiah 49:6

And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.

Revelation 15:4

Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for [thou] only [art] holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.