TRV
Translation
See also
In the KJVVerse 14,629 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on Psalms 47 verses 1–4
1 ¶ To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.
2 For the LORD most high is terrible; he is a great King over all the earth.
3 He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet.
4 He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah.
The psalmist, having his own heart filled with great and good thoughts of God, endeavours to engage all about him in the blessed work of praise, as one convinced that God is worthy of all blessing and praise, and as one grieved at his own and others' backwardness to and barrenness in this work. Observe, in these verses,
I. Who are called upon to praise God: "All you people, all you people of Israel;" those were his own subjects, and under his charge, and therefore he will engage them to praise God, for on them he has an influence. Whatever others do, he and his house, he and his people, shall praise the Lord. Or, "All you people and nations of the earth;" and so it may be taken as a prophecy of the conversion of the Gentiles and the bringing of them into the church; see Rom 15:11.
II. What they are called upon to do: "O clap your hands, in token of your own joy and satisfaction in what God has done for you, of your approbation, nay, your admiration, of what God has done in general, and of your indignation against all the enemies of God's glory, Job 27:23. Clap your hands, as men transported with pleasure, that cannot contain themselves; shout unto God, not to make him hear (his ear is not heavy), but to make all about you hear, and take notice how much you are affected and filled with the works of God. Shout with the voice of triumph in him, and in his power and goodness, that others may join with you in the triumph." Note, Such expressions of pious and devout affections as to some may seem indecent and imprudent ought not to be hastily censured and condemned, much less ridiculed, because, if they come from an upright heart, God will accept the strength of the affection and excuse the weakness of the expressions of it.
III. What is suggested to us as matter for our praise. 1. That the God with whom we have to do is a God of awful majesty (Psa 47:2): The Lord most high is terrible. He is infinitely above the noblest creatures, higher than the highest; there are those perfections in him that are to be reverenced by all, and particularly that power, holiness, and justice, that are to be dreaded by all those that contend with him. 2. That he is a God of sovereign and universal dominion. He is a King that reigns alone, and with an absolute power, a King over all the earth; all the creatures, being made by him, are subject to him, and therefore he is a great King, the King of kings. 3. That he takes a particular care of his people and their concerns, has done so and ever will; (1.) In giving them victory and success (Psa 47:3), subduing the people and nations under them, both those that stood in their way (Psa 44:2) and those that made attempts upon them. This God had done for them, witness the planting of them in Canaan, and their continuance there unto this day. This they doubted not but he would still do for them by his servant David, who prospered which way soever he turned his victorious arms. But this looks forward to the kingdom of the Messiah, which was to be set over all the earth, and not confined to the Jewish nation. Jesus Christ shall subdue the Gentiles; he shall bring them in as sheep into the fold (so the word signifies), not for slaughter, but for preservation. He shall subdue their affections, and make them a willing people in the day of his power, shall bring their thoughts into obedience to him, and reduce those who had gone astray, under the guidance of the great shepherd and bishop of souls, Pe1 2:25. (2.) In giving them rest and settlement (Psa 47:4): He shall choose our inheritance for us. He had chosen the land of Canaan to be an inheritance for Israel; it was the land which the Lord their God spied out for them; see Deu 32:8. This justified their possession of that land, an d gave them a good title; and this sweetened their enjoyment of it, and made it comfortable; they had reason to think it a happy lot, and to be satisfied in it, when it was that which Infinite Wisdom chose for them. And the setting up of God's sanctuary in it made it the excellency, the honour, of Jacob (Amo 6:8); and he chose so good an inheritance for Jacob because he loved him, Deu 7:8. Apply this spiritually, and it bespeaks, [1.] The happiness of the saints, that God himself has chosen their inheritance for them, and it is a goodly heritage: he has chosen it who knows the soul, and what will serve to make it happy; and he has chosen so well that he himself has undertaken to be the inheritance of his people (Psa 16:5), and he has laid up for them in the other world an inheritance incorruptible, Pe1 1:4. This will be indeed the excellency of Jacob, for whom, because he loved them, he prepared such a happiness as eye has not seen. [2.] The faith and submission of the saints to God. This is the language of every gracious soul, "God shall choose my inheritance for me; let him appoint me my lot, and I will acquiesce in the appointment. He knows what is good for me better than I do for myself, and therefore I will have no will of my own but what is resolved into his."
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 1–4. Public domain.
Copy as
John ChrysostomAD 407
COMMENTARY ON THE PSALMS 47:3-4
What a marvel! He convinced those who crucified him to bow down in worship; those who mocked and blasphemed, those addicted to idol worship he taught to let their souls yield to his will. This transformation, you see, was not of the apostles’ doing but done by him who led the way before them and moved their spirit. I mean, how could a fisherman or a builder have so changed the world had not the words of this person cleared all these obstacles? Sorcerers and tyrants and demagogues and philosophers and all their opponents they scared away like grains of dust and dissipated like smoke. In this way they spread the light of truth, employing not weapons or abundance of wealth but simple speech—or, rather, the speech was not simple but more potent than any action. So how? They called on the name of the crucified, and death skulked away, demons were put to flight, diseases were cured, bodily disfigurement righted, wickedness dispelled, dangers dissipated and the elements transformed.… He it was who removed the obstacles as he went before them; he himself smoothed out problems and made difficult things easy. And yet everything was beset by conflicts, everything with snares and hazards, no foothold or places to stand firm, all havens obstructed, every house shut, the ears of all stopped. Nevertheless, as soon as they entered and spoke, all strongholds of the enemy fell, with the result that they even surrendered their souls and then withstood countless dangers for the sake of what they had been told.
Augustine of HippoAD 430
Exposition on Psalm 47
"He has subdued the people under us, and the nations under our feet" [Psalm 47:3]. Which subdued, and to whom? Who are they that speak? Haply Jews? Surely, if Apostles; surely, if Saints. For under these God has subdued the people and the nations, that today are they honoured among the nations, who by their own citizens earned to be slain: as their Lord was slain by His citizens, and is honoured among the nations; was crucified by His own, is adored by aliens, but those by a price made His own. For therefore bought He us, that aliens from Him we might not be. Do you think then these are the words of Apostles, "He has subdued the people under us, and the nations under our feet"? I know not. Strange that Apostles should speak so proudly, as to rejoice that the nations were put under their feet, that is, Christians under the feet of Apostles. For they rejoice that we are with them under the feet of Him who died for us. For under Paul's feet ran they, who would be of Paul, to whom He said, "Was Paul crucified for you?" [1 Corinthians 1:13] What then here, what are we to understand? "He has subdued the people under us, and the nations under our feet." All pertaining to Christ's inheritance are among "all the nations," and all not pertaining to Christ's inheritance are among "all the nations:" and you see so exalted in Christ's Name is Christ's Church, that all not yet believing in Christ lie under the feet of Christians. For what numbers now run to the Church; not yet being Christians, they ask aid of the Church; to be succoured by us temporally they are willing, though eternally to reign with us as yet they are unwilling. When all seek aid of the Church, even they who are not yet in the Church, has He not "subdued the people under us, and the nations under our feet"?
Arnobius the YoungerAD 460
COMMENTARY ON THE PSALMS 47
When did he subject people under our feet? When he chose his inheritance for us from the person of Mary, whom the Holy Spirit chose. Then, he ascended with a shout and voice of trumpet.… Glory to God on high, angels tell the shepherds. Behold, the Lord rules over every nation. The Lord sits on his holy seat.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as
Continue studying Psalms 47:3 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
SUMMARY
Psalms 47:3 serves as a powerful declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and His active role in establishing the dominion of His chosen people. This verse anticipates a future triumph, underscoring God's divine prerogative to subdue all opposition and bring nations into submission, thereby exalting His covenant community as the King over all the earth. It is a testament to God's unwavering power and His commitment to fulfilling His purposes.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Psalms 47:3 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its message of divine triumph and absolute sovereignty. Parallelism is prominently featured in the two clauses, "He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet." The second clause echoes and amplifies the first, reinforcing the idea of complete and widespread subjugation through synonymous repetition. Imagery is central, particularly the vivid picture of "nations under our feet," which is a potent idiom for absolute victory, dominion, and complete defeat, drawing on ancient Near Eastern practices of conquerors. This metaphorical language powerfully conveys the totality of God's power and the comprehensive nature of the triumph He grants. The consistent use of the third-person singular pronoun "He" (referring to God) at the beginning of the verse is a form of anaphora within the broader psalm, emphasizing the singular divine agency behind all these powerful acts of subduing and establishing dominion.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 47:3 articulates a fundamental theological truth: God's absolute sovereignty extends over all creation, including human nations and political powers. This verse connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's covenant with Israel, promising them blessing and dominion as a reflection of His own kingship. It foreshadows the ultimate reign of God, where all opposition will be brought to nothing, and His will shall be perfectly established. This theme of divine subjugation of enemies is not merely about physical conquest but also about the spiritual triumph of righteousness over rebellion, culminating in the universal recognition of God's supreme authority. It speaks to God's faithfulness to His promises and His unwavering purpose to establish His kingdom of justice and peace, demonstrating that His ultimate triumph is assured.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For the contemporary believer, Psalms 47:3 offers profound comfort and a robust framework for understanding God's active involvement in the world. It reminds us that despite the apparent chaos, injustice, or overwhelming challenges we face—whether personal, societal, or global—God remains the supreme King, infinitely powerful and utterly sovereign. Our hope is not rooted in human strength, political systems, or fleeting circumstances, but in the immutable character and omnipotent power of the Lord who actively works to bring all things into submission to His perfect will. This verse calls us to a posture of confident worship, knowing that the God who subdues nations is the same God who fights for us, ultimately guaranteeing the triumph of His kingdom and the ultimate peace and justice that will prevail when all things are brought under His feet. It encourages us to live with an eschatological hope, anticipating the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess His Lordship, and His righteous reign will be fully established.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does this verse promote a triumphalist or imperialistic view for believers?
Answer: While the language of "subduing" and "under our feet" can sound triumphalist, it's crucial to understand it within its theological context. This verse primarily speaks to God's divine sovereignty and His righteous judgment, not a call for human conquest or political imperialism. The dominion granted to "us" (Israel) was always contingent on their covenant faithfulness and was ultimately a reflection of God's own reign. In the New Testament, the "subduing" of enemies is primarily spiritual and eschatological, fulfilled in Christ's victory over sin, death, and spiritual forces, as seen in Colossians 2:15. For believers today, it points to the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom and righteousness, assuring us that God will ultimately bring all things into submission to His perfect will, establishing His eternal reign of peace and justice.
How does this verse relate to the concept of God's love and mercy?
Answer: At first glance, the imagery of subduing nations might seem at odds with God's love and mercy. However, God's subduing actions are often an expression of His righteous governance. When nations or peoples oppose God's purposes, oppress His people, or perpetuate evil, His intervention to "subdue" them is an act of justice and a demonstration of His commitment to righteousness. Ultimately, God's desire is for all nations to worship Him, as expressed in Psalms 86:9. The subduing of opposition is a necessary step towards the establishment of a righteous kingdom where true peace and justice, born of God's character, can prevail. Even in judgment, there is often an underlying redemptive purpose, inviting repentance and leading to ultimate restoration for those who turn to Him.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 47:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the psalm speaks of God subduing nations for Israel, the New Testament reveals that the true King who subdues all enemies is Christ Himself. The imagery of enemies "under our feet" is powerfully echoed in passages like 1 Corinthians 15:25-27, where Paul declares that Christ "must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet," with the last enemy to be destroyed being death. This demonstrates that Christ's victory on the cross and His resurrection were the decisive acts of subduing sin, death, and the powers of darkness, triumphing over them in Colossians 2:15. Furthermore, the dominion promised to God's people in the Old Testament is realized in the Church, the body of Christ, which shares in His victory and future reign, as He is "head over everything for the church" (Ephesians 1:22). Thus, Psalms 47:3 points forward to the universal reign of Christ, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess His Lordship (Philippians 2:10-11), establishing a kingdom of righteousness and peace that will have no end (Luke 1:33).