Psalms 24:10

KJV

Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he [is] the King of glory. Selah.

KJV (with Strong's)

Who is this King {H4428} of glory {H3519}? The LORD {H3068} of hosts {H6635}, he is the King {H4428} of glory {H3519}. Selah {H5542}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Who is he, this glorious king? ADONAI-Tzva'ot he is the glorious king. (Selah)

Berean Standard Bible

Who is He, this King of Glory? The LORD of Hosts— He is the King of Glory. Selah

American Standard Version

Who is this King of glory? Jehovah of hosts, He is the King of glory. [Selah

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 24:10 serves as the triumphant climax of a majestic psalm, definitively answering the rhetorical question, "Who is this King of glory?" with the resounding declaration, "The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah." This verse not only identifies the supreme, all-powerful God of Israel as the rightful sovereign but also encapsulates the psalm's themes of divine majesty, universal ownership, and the conditions for approaching His holy presence, culminating in a dramatic affirmation of His unparalleled authority and splendor.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 24:10 concludes a psalm that progresses through distinct sections, building to this climactic declaration. It begins with a universal declaration of God's sovereignty over all creation in [Psalm 24:1-2](/psalms/24-1-2 "Psalm 24:1-2 - God's Ownership of the Earth"). This foundational truth then leads to the crucial question of who is worthy to ascend to God's holy hill and stand in His holy place, emphasizing moral and spiritual purity in [Psalm 24:3-6](/psalms/24-3-6 "Psalm 24:3-6 - Conditions for Approaching God's Presence"). The latter half of the psalm, [Psalm 24:7-10](/psalms/24-7-10 "Psalm 24:7-10 - The King of Glory Enters"), shifts to a dramatic, almost liturgical dialogue, calling for the ancient gates to open for the "King of glory." Verse 10 echoes the question from [Psalm 24:8](/psalms/24-8 "Psalm 24:8 - The King of Glory, Strong and Mighty"), providing the definitive, climactic answer, solidifying the identity of this majestic King and bringing the psalm to a powerful, worshipful close.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Psalm 24 is widely understood as a psalm of ascent, likely composed for a ceremonial procession, possibly involving the Ark of the Covenant being brought into Jerusalem, as described in [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem"). The imagery of "lifting up your heads, O ye gates" (verses 7, 9) suggests a grand entry into a fortified city, perhaps Jerusalem and its temple precincts. The "King of glory" would be entering His rightful domain. The title "LORD of hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) was deeply significant in ancient Israel, portraying God as the commander of heavenly armies and all cosmic forces, a powerful protector and sovereign over all nations. The "Selah" at the end of the verse indicates a pause, likely for musical interlude or solemn reflection, common in temple liturgy, inviting the worshiper to meditate on the profound truth just proclaimed.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the psalm and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty and Majesty**, emphatically declaring God's ultimate reign and inherent splendor. He is not merely a king, but "the King of glory," signifying His unparalleled power and honor over all creation, as established in [Psalm 24:1](/psalms/24-1 "Psalm 24:1 - The Earth is the Lord's"). Secondly, it clarifies **The Identity of the King**, definitively naming "The LORD of hosts" as the one worthy of such adoration, linking the universal Creator with the covenant God of Israel. This identification is crucial, as it grounds the abstract concept of divine power in the specific, relational God of the covenant. Thirdly, the verse culminates the theme of **Triumphant Entry**, portraying a magnificent, victorious procession where the most powerful and glorious being in existence is welcomed into His sanctuary, an idea also seen in prophetic visions of God's overwhelming presence, such as [Isaiah 6:1-5](/isaiah/6-1-5 "Isaiah 6:1-5 - Isaiah's Vision of the Lord").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **King (Hebrew, _melek'_):** From the root meaning "to reign," this word denotes a ruler, sovereign, or monarch. In this context, it refers to a supreme earthly or heavenly authority. Applied to God, it signifies His absolute dominion, His rightful claim to govern, and His inherent right to exercise power over all creation.
* **Glory (Hebrew, _kâbôwd'_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "heavy" or "weighty," figuratively signifies splendor, honor, reputation, and majesty. When attributed to God, it describes the visible manifestation of His inherent worth, His radiant presence, and the awe-inspiring effulgence of His divine being. It encompasses His dignity, power, and the profound reverence He commands.
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the sacred, ineffable covenant name of God, often rendered "LORD" in English Bibles. It signifies "the self-Existent" or "the Eternal One," emphasizing God's unchanging nature, His absolute being, and His faithfulness to His covenant promises. It is the personal name by which God revealed Himself to Israel.
* **hosts (Hebrew, _tsâbâʼ'_):** This word refers to a mass of persons, especially those organized for war (an army), or figuratively, things. It can denote celestial armies (angels), the stars, or all the forces of the universe. When combined with "LORD" (YHWH Sabaoth), it portrays God as the supreme commander of all creation, both visible and invisible, highlighting His omnipotence and absolute control over all realms.
* **Selah (Hebrew, _çelâh'_):** A technical term found frequently in the Psalms, likely a musical or liturgical notation. It signifies a "suspension" or "pause," inviting the reader or worshiper to reflect deeply on the profound truth just declared, allowing its weight and significance to fully resonate. It serves as a cue for solemn contemplation or a musical interlude.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Who is this King of glory?"**: This is a rhetorical question, repeated from [Psalm 24:8](/psalms/24-8 "Psalm 24:8 - The King of Glory Enters"), serving to heighten the dramatic tension and anticipation. It is posed by an implied gatekeeper or heavenly chorus, challenging the identity of the approaching sovereign. The question itself implies that the "King of glory" is distinct and of such unparalleled magnitude that His identity requires a specific, emphatic declaration, building to a grand reveal.
* **"The LORD of hosts, he [is] the King of glory."**: This is the definitive, climactic answer to the preceding question. It unequivocally identifies the "King of glory" as _YHWH Sabaoth_, the covenant God of Israel who commands all creation and heavenly armies. The repetition of "he [is] the King of glory" serves as a powerful affirmation, leaving no doubt about His supreme authority, invincible power, and inherent splendor. This declaration is the central theological assertion of the verse, establishing God's ultimate sovereignty and demonstrating His rightful claim to enter His sanctuary.
* **"Selah."**: This final notation acts as a liturgical pause. It prompts the worshiper to internalize the profound truth just proclaimed—that the God of Israel, the LORD of hosts, is indeed the King of glory—and to respond with awe, worship, and deep reflection on His magnificent identity and reign. It is a moment to let the weight of God's majesty settle upon the soul.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 24:10 employs several potent literary devices to achieve its dramatic and theological impact. The most prominent is **Repetition**, specifically of the rhetorical question "Who is this King of glory?" and its emphatic answer "he is the King of glory." This repetition, particularly the echo from [Psalm 24:8](/psalms/24-8 "Psalm 24:8 - The King of Glory, Strong and Mighty"), builds anticipation and reinforces the central declaration, ensuring the identity of the King is unequivocally established. The psalm also uses **Rhetorical Question** ("Who is this King of glory?"), which serves not to elicit new information but to draw the audience into the dramatic moment and prepare them for the profound revelation that follows. The **Title** "King of glory" and "LORD of hosts" are themselves powerful literary and theological constructs, functioning as **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche** for God's entire being, encapsulating His majesty, power, and sovereignty. Finally, the inclusion of **Selah** acts as a metrical or musical notation, but also functions as a literary cue for a contemplative pause, allowing the weight of the preceding declaration to fully settle upon the listener, deepening the worship experience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 24:10 stands as a foundational declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and inherent glory, echoing throughout the biblical narrative. The title "LORD of hosts" (YHWH Sabaoth) powerfully connects the God of creation with the God of covenant, emphasizing His omnipotence and control over all earthly and heavenly forces. This verse solidifies the understanding that the God who owns the earth and everything in it (as declared in [Psalm 24:1](/psalms/24-1 "The Earth is the Lord's")) is also the majestic King whose presence demands purity and whose power is unmatched. It points to a God who is not distant but actively present, worthy of triumphant entry and ultimate worship, foreshadowing the ultimate revelation of His glory in both the Old and New Testaments.

* [Isaiah 6:3](/isaiah/6-3 "Isaiah 6:3 - Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts")
* [Psalm 96:6](/psalms/96-6 "Psalm 96:6 - Honor and Majesty Are Before Him")
* [Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 24:10 calls believers to a profound reorientation of their understanding of God. In a world often characterized by competing allegiances, human pride, and the worship of lesser things, this verse serves as a powerful corrective, reminding us that there is only one true King of glory, the LORD of hosts. Acknowledging Him as such should transform our worship from a casual engagement to a posture of deep awe and reverence, recognizing His unparalleled majesty and power. This understanding also cultivates unwavering trust; if the "LORD of hosts" is our King, then His might is invincible, His purposes are sovereign, and His protection is absolute, enabling us to face life's challenges with confidence and peace. Furthermore, recognizing the King's holiness, as implied by the earlier verses of the psalm ([Psalm 24:3-4](/psalms/24-3-4 "Psalm 24:3-4 - Who May Ascend to the Lord's Holy Hill?")), should inspire us to live lives of moral integrity and spiritual purity, striving to honor Him in every thought, word, and deed, preparing our hearts as a dwelling place for His glorious presence and reflecting His character to a watching world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God as "the LORD of hosts" impact your sense of security and trust in His power in the face of personal or global challenges?**
* **In what practical ways does your daily life and worship reflect His identity as "the King of glory," rather than merely a distant deity?**
* **Considering the call to purity in this psalm, what specific areas of your life might need to be consecrated more fully to honor the holiness and majesty of the "King of glory"?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the title "LORD of hosts" in Psalms 24:10?**

Answer: The title "LORD of hosts" (Hebrew: YHWH Sabaoth) is profoundly significant. "YHWH" is God's personal, covenant name, emphasizing His self-existence, eternal nature, and faithfulness to His people. "Sabaoth" means "armies" or "hosts," referring to both the celestial armies (angels) and all the forces of the universe, including the stars and natural phenomena. This title portrays God as the supreme commander of all creation, both visible and invisible. It highlights His omnipotence, His absolute control over all powers and realms, and His invincibility. When the psalm declares the "King of glory" to be the "LORD of hosts," it leaves no doubt that the God of Israel is the ultimate, all-powerful sovereign, worthy of all worship and able to overcome any obstacle. This title is often invoked in contexts of divine power and intervention, as seen in [Isaiah 6:3](/isaiah/6-3 "Isaiah 6:3 - Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord of Hosts") and [1 Samuel 17:45](/1_samuel/17-45 "1 Samuel 17:45 - David's Declaration to Goliath").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 24:10, with its dramatic declaration of the "King of glory," finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While initially celebrating the triumphant entry of YHWH into His sanctuary, this psalm powerfully foreshadows the coming, crucifixion, resurrection, ascension, and glorious return of the Messiah. Jesus, as the Son of God, is the very embodiment of divine glory, the "radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being" ([Hebrews 1:3](/hebrews/1-3 "Hebrews 1:3 - The Son's Superiority to Angels")). His triumphant entry into Jerusalem on a donkey ([Matthew 21:1-11](/matthew/21-1-11 "Matthew 21:1-11 - Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem")) was a humble foreshadowing of His true kingly identity, a King who comes not with earthly might but with divine authority. More significantly, His ascension into heaven after His resurrection was the ultimate "lifting up of the ancient gates," as the resurrected "King of glory" entered His eternal dwelling place, taking His rightful seat at the right hand of the Father ([Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9-11 "Acts 1:9-11 - Jesus Ascends to Heaven"); [Ephesians 1:20-21](/ephesians/1-20-21 "Ephesians 1:20-21 - Christ Seated at God's Right Hand")). Ultimately, the question "Who is this King of glory?" will be answered definitively at His second coming, when Jesus, the "King of kings and Lord of lords" ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - Jesus as King of Kings and Lord of Lords")), returns in power and great glory to establish His eternal kingdom, and every knee will bow before Him, confessing His supreme Lordship ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Will Bow to Jesus")).

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

Titus 2:13

Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Isaiah 54:5

For thy Maker [is] thine husband; the LORD of hosts [is] his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called.

Matthew 25:34

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

John 14:9

Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou [then], Shew us the Father?

John 12:40

He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with [their] eyes, nor understand with [their] heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.

Zechariah 2:8

For thus saith the LORD of hosts; After the glory hath he sent me unto the nations which spoiled you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the apple of his eye.

Zechariah 2:11

And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee.