Psalms 24:7

KJV

¶ Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.

KJV (with Strong's)

Lift up {H5375} your heads {H7218}, O ye gates {H8179}; and be ye lift up {H5375}, ye everlasting {H5769} doors {H6607}; and the King {H4428} of glory {H3519} shall come in {H935}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Lift up your heads, you gates! Lift them up, everlasting doors, so that the glorious king can enter!

Berean Standard Bible

Lift up your heads, O gates! Be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of Glory may enter!

American Standard Version

Lift up your heads, O ye gates; And be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors: And the King of glory will come in.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalm 24:7 issues a profound and majestic command, personifying ancient city gates and enduring doors, ordering them to open wide in anticipation of the triumphant arrival of the "King of glory." This verse serves as a powerful declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and overwhelming majesty, asserting that even the most formidable and seemingly permanent earthly barriers must yield and bow before the supreme authority of the divine King who is about to enter His rightful domain.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 24 is a processional psalm, likely composed for a significant liturgical event, possibly the bringing of the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem. The psalm unfolds in a dramatic, almost antiphonal structure. It begins by establishing God's universal dominion as the Creator and Sustainer of all creation in [Psalm 24:1-2](/psalms/24-1-2 "Psalm 24:1-2 - The Lord's Dominion Over Creation"). This foundational truth sets the stage for the crucial question posed in [Psalm 24:3](/psalms/24-3 "Psalm 24:3 - Who May Ascend?"): "Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?" The subsequent verses ([Psalm 24:4-6](/psalms/24-4-6 "Psalm 24:4-6 - Qualifications for God's Presence")) provide the moral and spiritual qualifications for those who seek to approach God's holy presence—individuals characterized by clean hands and a pure heart. Following this human inquiry and response, [Psalm 24:7](/psalms/24-7 "Psalm 24:7 - The King of Glory Enters") dramatically shifts focus from humanity's ascent to God's triumphant advent, culminating in the climactic, repeated call for the "King of glory" to enter, emphasizing His inherent right and irresistible power to do so, a theme further underscored in [Psalm 24:8-10](/psalms/24-8-10 "Psalm 24:8-10 - The Lord, Strong and Mighty").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** This psalm is widely associated with King David's bringing of the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem, as vividly recounted in [2 Samuel 6](/2_samuel/6 "2 Samuel 6 - David Brings the Ark to Jerusalem"). The "gates" and "everlasting doors" would have referred literally to the formidable, heavily fortified city gates of ancient Jerusalem, or later, the gates of the Temple complex. In the ancient Near East, city gates were far more than mere entry points; they were symbols of a city's strength, defense, and authority. They served as places for legal proceedings, public announcements, and social gatherings. The act of commanding such massive, ancient, and permanent structures to "lift up their heads" or "be lifted up" would have been a profoundly dramatic and visually impactful gesture, signifying the yielding of human strongholds and earthly power to the overwhelming, divine authority of the approaching King. The term "everlasting doors" (or "ancient doors") particularly emphasizes their enduring nature, making their compelled submission to the "King of glory" even more awe-inspiring and profound.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme of [Psalm 24](/psalms/24 "Psalm 24 - The King of Glory") is the **absolute sovereignty and majestic glory of God**. The psalm opens by declaring God's ownership over all creation, firmly establishing Him as the ultimate, universal ruler. This foundational truth provides the context for the triumphant entry of the "King of glory," who is revealed not as a mere earthly monarch but as the divine sovereign whose authority transcends all human and physical barriers. Another crucial theme is **holiness and purity**, as highlighted in [Psalm 24:3-6](/psalms/24-3-6 "Psalm 24:3-6 - Qualifications for God's Presence"), which meticulously outlines the moral and spiritual qualifications for those permitted to stand in God's holy presence. This implies that the King's entry is into a sacred space, demanding reverence, preparation, and spiritual integrity from those who would welcome Him. Finally, the theme of **triumphant entry and divine presence** is paramount, portraying God's active, powerful, and irresistible movement into His rightful domain, demanding the removal of all obstacles and an enthusiastic, reverent welcome.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Lift up (Hebrew, _nâsâʼ'_):** From H5375 (נָסָא), this primitive root means "to lift" in a vast array of applications, both literal and figurative. In this context, it is an imperative command for the gates to be raised, signifying an opening, an exaltation, or a removal of an impediment. The repetition of this verb emphasizes the urgency and necessity of the gates yielding to the King's approach, highlighting His irresistible authority.
* **glory (Hebrew, _kâbôwd'_):** From H3519 (כָּבוֹד), this word properly means "weight," but figuratively denotes "splendor," "honor," or "copiousness." When applied to God, _kâbôwd_ often refers to the visible, tangible manifestation of His presence, majesty, and inherent worth. The "King of glory" is therefore the King whose very being is characterized by profound weight, honor, and resplendent majesty, a presence that demands reverence and submission.
* **everlasting (Hebrew, _ʻôwlâm'_):** From H5769 (עוֹלָם), this term literally means "concealed" or "the vanishing point," but generally refers to "time out of mind," "eternity," or "ancient time." When paired with "doors," it emphasizes the ancient, long-standing, and seemingly permanent nature of these barriers. The command for "everlasting doors" to lift up underscores that no obstacle, no matter how old, fixed, or formidable, can withstand the sovereign entry of the King of glory.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Lift up your heads, O ye gates;":** This clause initiates a dramatic, personified command. The "gates" (Hebrew, _shaʻar_, H8179), representing the physical entrances to a city or temple, are addressed as if they possess consciousness and agency. The imperative "Lift up your heads" is a vivid metaphor for the raising of the gate, perhaps a portcullis, or the swinging open of massive doors. It is an authoritative order, demanding immediate preparation and submission for the arrival of an exceptionally important figure.
* **"and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors;":** This clause functions as a powerful parallel and intensification of the preceding command. The repetition of "be ye lift up" (using the same root as "Lift up" from H5375) reinforces the urgency and absolute nature of the divine order. By specifying "everlasting doors" (Hebrew, _pethach_, H6607, for doors, and _ʻôwlâm_, H5769, for everlasting), the psalmist emphasizes the ancient, permanent, and formidable nature of these barriers. The passive voice ("be ye lift up") further highlights that this opening is not a voluntary act by the gates but a compelled action, an irresistible yielding to the immense power and authority of the King who is approaching.
* **"and the King of glory shall come in.":** This final clause reveals the glorious purpose and climactic outcome of the command. The gates and doors are to open because the "King of glory" (Hebrew, _melek_ H4428, for King, and _kâbôwd_ H3519, for glory) is about to enter. This declaration is a statement of absolute certainty and triumph. It signifies the successful, unhindered, and majestic entry of the divine sovereign into His rightful domain, bringing with Him His weighty presence, unparalleled splendor, and supreme authority.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 24:7 powerfully employs several literary devices to convey its message of divine majesty and triumphant entry. **Personification** is central, as the inanimate "gates" and "everlasting doors" are addressed directly, commanded as if they are sentient beings capable of hearing and obeying. This device imbues the scene with dramatic tension and vividly highlights the King's overwhelming authority, which extends even to the physical structures of the world. The pervasive use of the **Imperative Mood** ("Lift up," "be ye lift up") underscores the absolute and non-negotiable nature of the command; it is not a request but an order that demands immediate and complete obedience. Furthermore, the verse utilizes striking **Parallelism** through the repetition of similar phrases ("Lift up your heads, O ye gates" and "be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors"). This poetic technique creates a sense of rhythmic emphasis and intensification, reinforcing both the urgency and the certainty of the King's arrival and the necessity of all barriers yielding before Him. This parallelism also contributes significantly to the majestic, ceremonial, and processional tone of the psalm.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 24:7 articulates a profound theological truth regarding God's absolute sovereignty and His inherent right to enter any domain. It underscores that no earthly power, physical barrier, or spiritual impediment can ultimately withstand the glorious presence of the "King of glory." This verse invites deep reflection on the nature of God's majesty, His irresistible power to overcome all obstacles, and the appropriate response of all creation—and especially humanity—to His advent. The theological implication is that God's presence is not merely invited or welcomed as a guest, but actively asserts itself, demanding the removal of all impediments. This concept extends far beyond physical gates to encompass spiritual barriers within human hearts and societal structures, challenging individuals and communities to open themselves fully and unreservedly to the reign of God. The psalm's focus on the King of glory's entry into His holy place also connects seamlessly to the broader biblical narrative of God's desire to dwell among His people, a theme that finds its ultimate and most glorious expression in the incarnation of Christ and the eschatological vision of the New Jerusalem.

* [Isaiah 6:1-3](/isaiah/6-1-3 "Isaiah 6:1-3 - God's Glory Fills the Temple")
* [Psalm 118:19-20](/psalms/118-19-20 "Psalm 118:19-20 - Gates of Righteousness")
* [Revelation 21:23-27](/revelation/21-23-27 "Revelation 21:23-27 - The Glory of the New Jerusalem")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 24:7 serves as a timeless and urgent call to prepare for and enthusiastically welcome the King of glory into every aspect of our lives. Just as the ancient gates were commanded to yield, we are invited to introspectively examine the "gates" and "everlasting doors" within our own hearts and minds—those areas of stubborn resistance, unconfessed sin, pride, fear, or unforgiveness that prevent the full and unhindered reign of God. This verse challenges us to actively "lift up our heads," to surrender our control, and to intentionally dismantle any spiritual barriers that hinder God's majestic presence from entering, transforming, and taking full dominion over us. It is a profound reminder that the King of glory desires not just a superficial acknowledgment or a partial welcome, but a complete and unhindered reception, leading to a life lived in radical alignment with His holiness, sovereignty, and purposes. Embracing this truth means cultivating a heart of purity, humility, and eager anticipation, always ready to receive and respond to the Lord's presence and direction in our daily walk.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "gates" or "everlasting doors" in my life—whether they be deeply ingrained habits, unconfessed sins, areas of unforgiveness, or persistent anxieties—am I resisting opening fully to the King of glory?**
* **How does recognizing God as the "King of glory," with absolute authority and irresistible power, impact my understanding of His demands and my willingness to surrender completely to Him?**
* **In what concrete, practical ways can I "lift up my head" and actively prepare my heart to more fully welcome God's presence and allow His sovereign reign to extend into every hidden corner of my life today?**
* **Considering the preceding verses in [Psalm 24](/psalms/24 "Psalm 24 - The King of Glory"), how does the pursuit of personal holiness and a pure heart directly relate to truly allowing the King of glory to come in and dwell within us?**

### FAQ
**What is the "King of glory" in Psalm 24:7?**

Answer: The "King of glory" is a magnificent and weighty title for God Himself, specifically Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. It emphasizes His supreme authority, inherent splendor, and weighty presence. In the immediate context of [Psalm 24](/psalms/24 "Psalm 24 - The King of Glory"), the identity of this King is explicitly affirmed in [Psalm 24:8](/psalms/24-8 "Psalm 24:8 - The Lord Strong and Mighty") as "the Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle," and again in [Psalm 24:10](/psalms/24-10 "Psalm 24:10 - The Lord of Hosts") as "the Lord of hosts." This title encapsulates His universal sovereignty as the Creator and Owner of the earth, and His irresistible power to enter His rightful domain. The Hebrew word for "glory" (_kâbôwd_, H3519) denotes not just outward splendor but also the very essence of God's being—His honor, dignity, and substantial, awe-inspiring presence.

**What do the "gates" and "everlasting doors" symbolize?**

Answer: Literally, the "gates" (H8179, _shaʻar_) and "everlasting doors" (H6607, _pethach_, with H5769, _ʻôwlâm_) likely refer to the formidable physical city gates of Jerusalem or the grand gates of the Temple, which were ancient and robust structures. Symbolically, they represent any barrier, obstacle, or stronghold—whether physical, spiritual, or conceptual—that might stand in the way of God's triumphant entry. This can extend to spiritual barriers within human hearts, such as pride, sin, resistance, unbelief, or even the limitations of human understanding, which prevent the full and transformative reign of the "King of glory." The command for these gates to "lift up their heads" signifies the necessary yielding, submission, and opening of all things—both tangible and intangible—to the divine sovereign.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalm 24:7 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is unequivocally identified as the true "King of glory." While the psalm originally celebrated God's triumphant entry, it powerfully foreshadows Christ's victorious advent and exaltation. His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where crowds hailed Him as King, resonates deeply with the imagery of a sovereign entering His city, though this was but a glimpse of His true kingship ([John 12:13-15](/john/12-13-15 "John 12:13-15 - Jesus' Triumphal Entry")). More significantly, the ascension of Jesus to heaven, where He was exalted to the right hand of the Father, represents the ultimate "lifting up" of the "everlasting doors" of heaven for the true King of glory to enter His eternal throne room ([Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9-11 "Acts 1:9-11 - Jesus Ascends to Heaven"); [Ephesians 4:8-10](/ephesians/4-8-10 "Ephesians 4:8-10 - Christ's Ascension and Gifts")). The Apostle Paul explicitly identifies Jesus as "the Lord of glory" in [1 Corinthians 2:8](/1_corinthians/2-8 "1 Corinthians 2:8 - The Lord of Glory"), underscoring His divine majesty, and James refers to Him as "our glorious Lord Jesus Christ" in [James 2:1](/james/2-1 "James 2:1 - Faith and Impartiality"). Ultimately, this verse points forward to Christ's glorious second coming, when He will return in power and great glory, and every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation"); [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - The Rider on the White Horse")). He is the one who, through His atoning sacrifice, has opened the way to God, tearing down the veil that separated humanity from the divine presence, inviting us to draw near with confidence through His blood ([Hebrews 10:19-20](/hebrews/10-19-20 "Hebrews 10:19-20 - Access to God Through Christ")).

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

Isaiah 26:2

Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.

Psalms 118:19

¶ Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, [and] I will praise the LORD:

Psalms 118:20

This gate of the LORD, into which the righteous shall enter.

Psalms 97:6

The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.

Revelation 4:11

Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

1 Corinthians 2:8

Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known [it], they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

Ephesians 4:8

Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.