Psalms 97:1

KJV

¶ The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad [thereof].

KJV (with Strong's)

The LORD {H3068} reigneth {H4427}; let the earth {H776} rejoice {H1523}; let the multitude {H7227} of isles {H339} be glad {H8055} thereof.

Complete Jewish Bible

ADONAI is king, let the earth rejoice, let the many coasts and islands be glad.

Berean Standard Bible

The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the distant shores be glad.

American Standard Version

Jehovah reigneth; let the earth rejoice; Let the multitude of isles be glad.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 97:1 opens with a majestic and foundational declaration of God's active and eternal sovereignty, proclaiming that the LORD reigns as the supreme, all-encompassing King over all creation. This profound theological truth serves as a powerful and urgent invitation for the entire earth, from its most immediate regions to its most distant coastlands and nations, to respond with unbridled joy, profound gladness, and celebratory worship, recognizing the benevolent, righteous, and unwavering character of His universal dominion.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 97:1 functions as the grand overture to what is widely recognized as an "enthronement psalm," a distinct genre within the Psalter that emphatically proclaims YHWH's kingship. This psalm is part of a cluster (including [Psalms 93](/psalms/93 "Psalms 93 - The LORD Reigns"), [Psalms 95](/psalms/95 "Psalms 95 - Come, Let Us Sing to the LORD"), [Psalms 96](/psalms/96 "Psalms 96 - Sing to the LORD a New Song"), [Psalms 98](/psalms/98 "Psalms 98 - Sing to the LORD a New Song"), and [Psalms 99](/psalms/99 "Psalms 99 - The LORD Reigns, Let the Peoples Tremble")) that celebrates God's active and present rule over all creation and humanity. Situated within Book IV of the Psalter (Psalms 90-106), which often reflects on Israel's experience of exile and looks forward to God's ultimate restoration and universal reign, Psalms 97 provides a powerful theological anchor, affirming divine control amidst human turmoil and historical uncertainty. It immediately follows [Psalms 96](/psalms/96 "Psalms 96 - Sing to the LORD a New Song"), which similarly calls for all the earth to sing a new song and declare God's glory among the nations, thereby establishing a consistent and expanding theme of universal worship and recognition of God's sovereignty. The opening declaration of Psalms 97 sets the stage for the subsequent verses, which describe the manifestations of God's reign—His justice, righteousness, and the judgment of idols—and the appropriate response of His people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the concept of kingship was pervasive, with various human rulers and deities vying for supremacy and claiming dominion over specific territories or peoples. However, Israel's understanding of kingship was revolutionary and distinctive: YHWH, their covenant God, was the true, eternal, and universal King, transcending all earthly and cosmic powers. This radical theological claim, "The LORD reigneth," directly challenged the polytheistic worldview of surrounding cultures. While the precise historical setting for this psalm's composition is unknown, it likely had significant liturgical use in Israelite worship, possibly recited during major festivals such as the Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot), which celebrated God's provision, His dwelling among His people, and His ultimate reign over creation and history. The inclusion of "the multitude of isles" (often referring to distant coastlands, maritime regions, and by extension, Gentile nations) was not merely a geographical descriptor but a profound theological and cultural statement. It extended God's dominion and the call to rejoice beyond the immediate geographical and ethnic boundaries of Israel, foreshadowing a universal recognition of His authority and the global scope of His redemptive plan.
* **Key Themes:** The central and most potent theme of Psalms 97:1 is the **Sovereignty of God**. The declaration "The LORD reigneth" asserts God's ultimate, active, and unchallengeable control over all things—creation, human history, and the spiritual realm. This is a statement of His eternal and unassailable kingship, providing profound comfort and stability in a world often marked by chaos and uncertainty, echoing the steadfastness described in [Psalms 93:1-2](/psalms/93-1-2 "Psalms 93:1-2 - The LORD Reigns, He is Clothed with Majesty"). Flowing directly from this truth is the theme of **Universal Rejoicing**. The imperative command, "let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad [thereof]," is a call for all creation and all humanity to celebrate God's rule. This joy is not arbitrary but stems from the very character of His reign, which is founded on righteousness, justice, and benevolence, bringing order, peace, and salvation rather than tyranny or oppression. This theme is further developed when [the heavens rejoice and the earth is glad](/psalms/96-11 "Psalms 96:11 - Let the Heavens Rejoice") in response to God's coming to judge the earth. Finally, the inclusion of "the multitude of isles" underscores the **Universal Scope of God's Dominion and Redemptive Plan**. It highlights that God's kingship is not limited to Israel but extends to every part of the world and every people group. This foreshadows the global reach of God's redemptive purposes and the eventual recognition of His rule by all nations, a vision powerfully articulated in [prophetic declarations of Christ's kingdom](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Has Become Our Lord's").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **LORD (Hebrew, _Yᵉhôvâh'_):** This is the sacred, covenantal name of God, YHWH, often transliterated as "Yahweh" or rendered as "Jehovah" in older translations. Derived from the verb "to be" (H1961, _hayah_), it signifies "the self-Existent or Eternal One." Its use here emphasizes God's personal, eternal, and active presence as the sovereign ruler. It speaks of the God who is, who was, and who is to come, the faithful and unchanging one who actively intervenes in history and maintains His reign over all things.
* **reigneth (Hebrew, _mâlak'_):** This verb is presented as a Qal active participle, signifying an ongoing, dynamic reality. It does not merely state that God *was* king or *will be* king, but that He *is* actively ruling, exercising His authority, and sitting on His throne at this very moment. It conveys a sense of present, continuous action and established dominion, indicating that His kingship is not a static title but a vibrant, unfolding reality. The root meaning also includes "to ascend the throne" and "to induct into royalty," implying an active assumption and maintenance of power.
* **isles (Hebrew, _ʼîy'_):** This term literally refers to "a habitable spot (as desirable); dry land, a coast, an island." In a broader biblical sense, especially in prophetic literature, it often denotes distant lands, remote regions, or Gentile nations beyond the immediate sphere of Israel. Its inclusion here underscores the universal scope of God's kingship, extending His dominion and the call to rejoice to all peoples and geographical extremities of the earth, emphasizing that no place or people is outside His benevolent rule.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The LORD reigneth":** This is the foundational, declarative statement of the psalm, serving as its central theological assertion and the bedrock upon which the subsequent imperatives are built. It is an emphatic affirmation of God's absolute, active, and eternal sovereignty over all creation, history, and humanity. It is not merely a passive title but a dynamic reality, indicating God's continuous exercise of power and authority, a present and ongoing reality that demands recognition and response.
* **"let the earth rejoice":** Following the declaration of God's reign, this is an imperative call to action. The "earth" (אֶרֶץ, _'eretz_), encompassing all its inhabitants and natural elements, is commanded to respond with profound gladness and celebratory joy. This joy is not arbitrary or superficial but flows directly from the character of God's rule, which is just, righteous, and brings order, peace, and blessing to His creation. It is the appropriate and natural response to a benevolent and powerful King.
* **"let the multitude of isles be glad [thereof]":** This phrase expands the scope of the call to rejoice, emphasizing the universal reach of God's dominion. "The multitude of isles" specifically includes distant coastlands and Gentile nations, underscoring that God's kingship is not confined to Israel but extends to all peoples and every corner of the globe. Their gladness is a direct response to the knowledge and experience of His righteous and benevolent reign, anticipating a future when all nations will acknowledge and celebrate His supreme authority.

#### Literary Devices
The opening verse of Psalms 97 employs several significant **Literary Devices** to convey its powerful message. The most prominent is the **Enthronement Formula**, "The LORD reigneth," which immediately establishes the psalm's central theme and genre. This declarative statement functions as a powerful, almost liturgical, proclamation of divine kingship, setting a tone of majesty and authority. Following this, the use of the **Imperative Mood** ("let... rejoice," "let... be glad") transforms the declaration into a direct command, inviting and even demanding a joyful response from all creation. This creates a sense of active participation in the celebration of God's rule, making the audience not just observers but participants. Furthermore, the verse exhibits **Parallelism**, specifically a form of **Synonymous Parallelism** with a broadening scope: "let the earth rejoice" is echoed and expanded by "let the multitude of isles be glad." This technique emphasizes the universal and all-encompassing nature of God's dominion and the corresponding call for global celebration, reinforcing the idea that His rule extends to every corner of the world. Finally, there is an element of **Personification** as the "earth" and "isles" are attributed the human capacity for emotion, specifically "rejoicing" and "being glad," vividly portraying creation's appropriate and jubilant response to its sovereign King.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 97:1 powerfully encapsulates the core biblical truth of God's absolute sovereignty, a theme that reverberates throughout Scripture from Genesis to Revelation. The declaration "The LORD reigneth" is not merely an ancient Israelite creed but an eternal reality that undergirds all of existence, providing the ultimate framework for understanding creation, history, and redemption. It speaks to God's active governance over creation, the unfolding of human history, and the intricate affairs of humanity, assuring believers that no power, no circumstance, and no event is outside of His ultimate, providential control. This profound truth invites a universal response of joy, as God's reign is fundamentally righteous, just, and benevolent, bringing order and salvation rather than chaos, tyranny, or oppression. The inclusion of "the multitude of isles" highlights God's expansive redemptive plan for all nations, anticipating the global spread of His kingdom and the eventual worship of Him by every tribe, tongue, people, and nation.

* [Psalms 93:1](/psalms/93-1 "Psalms 93:1 - The LORD Reigns, He is Clothed with Majesty")
* [Isaiah 52:7](/isaiah/52-7 "Isaiah 52:7 - How Beautiful Are the Feet")
* [Revelation 19:6](/revelation/19-6 "Revelation 19:6 - The Lord God Omnipotent Reigns")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The profound declaration of Psalms 97:1, "The LORD reigneth," offers an unshakeable anchor of stability and an inexhaustible wellspring of joy for believers in every age. In a world often characterized by uncertainty, chaos, and the apparent triumph of evil, this verse serves as a powerful and timely reminder that God is not dethroned, disengaged, or distant; He is actively on His throne, exercising His supreme authority, and orchestrating all things according to His perfect will and sovereign purpose. This truth invites us to consciously shift our gaze from the fleeting anxieties of earthly circumstances and the tumult of global events to the enduring, immutable reality of divine control. When we truly grasp, by faith, that the LORD reigns, it cultivates a deep sense of peace and security, allowing us to rest in His unfailing wisdom, omnipotent power, and perfect love. It also compels a joyful response, transforming our perspective from despair to hope, knowing that His reign is righteous, just, and ultimately brings about redemption, restoration, and flourishing. Furthermore, recognizing the universal scope of His dominion—that the "multitude of isles" is called to be glad—should ignite within us a fervent passion to proclaim His kingdom to all peoples, inviting them to share in the profound gladness that comes from bowing before the benevolent and sovereign King.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth of God's active reign impact your daily anxieties and fears, especially when facing seemingly overwhelming personal circumstances or global crises?**
* **In what practical ways can you personally "rejoice" in the LORD's sovereignty, even amidst significant personal struggles, disappointments, or global turmoil?**
* **Considering that "the multitude of isles" is called to be glad, how might acknowledging God's universal dominion shape your prayers, your involvement in missions, and your perspective on global events and diverse cultures?**

### FAQ
**What does "The LORD reigneth" truly mean for us today?**

Answer: For us today, "The LORD reigneth" means that God is not merely a historical figure, a distant creator, or a passive deity, but an active, present, and sovereign ruler over all creation and every circumstance within it. It signifies that He is in ultimate, absolute control, that His divine purposes will infallibly prevail, and that nothing happens outside of His perfect knowledge, permission, or design. This truth provides profound comfort and security, assuring us that even in chaos, God is immutably on His throne, working all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose, as powerfully affirmed in [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good"). It calls us to place our complete trust in His infinite wisdom and omnipotent power, even when we cannot fully comprehend His ways or discern His immediate plans.

**Why are "the earth" and "the multitude of isles" called to rejoice?**

Answer: The earth and the multitude of isles are called to rejoice because God's reign is fundamentally benevolent, righteous, and just, distinct from any earthly dominion. Unlike human rulers who can be tyrannical, corrupt, or fallible, God's kingship brings divine order out of chaos, establishes perfect justice, and ultimately leads to salvation, flourishing, and peace for His creation. His rule is not oppressive but liberating, not arbitrary but perfectly wise. The psalmist in [Psalms 96:10](/psalms/96-10 "Psalms 96:10 - The World is Established") emphatically declares, "Say among the nations, 'The LORD reigns! Indeed, the world is firmly established; it cannot be moved; He will judge the peoples with equity.'" The gladness commanded is therefore a natural, appropriate, and joyful response to a King whose character is perfect, whose dominion is eternal, and whose reign brings ultimate good, righteousness, and redemption to all who submit to Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 97:1 finds its ultimate, most glorious, and comprehensive fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament declares the majestic truth that "The LORD reigneth," the New Testament reveals that this reigning LORD is none other than God incarnate, Jesus of Nazareth. He is the one to whom [all authority in heaven and on earth has been given](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus") by the Father, and through whom [all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together](/colossians/1-16-17 "Colossians 1:16-17 - Christ, Creator and Sustainer"). His first coming inaugurated the kingdom of God, demonstrating His sovereign power over sin, sickness, death, and demonic forces. His triumphant resurrection and subsequent ascension to the right hand of the Father signify His enthronement as the cosmic King, actively reigning even now over all creation and all history, with [all things put under His feet](/ephesians/1-20-22 "Ephesians 1:20-22 - Christ Enthroned Above All"). The call for "the earth" and "the multitude of isles" to rejoice is being progressively fulfilled as the gospel of His kingdom is proclaimed to every nation, inviting all peoples to acknowledge Christ's sovereignty and find salvation in His benevolent rule. Ultimately, this verse anticipates the eschatological climax when, at His second coming, [the kingdom of the world will become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Has Become Our Lord's"), leading to the glorious day when [every knee will bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow"), bringing about the universal and eternal rejoicing in the perfect reign of the Lamb.

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 96:10

¶ Say among the heathen [that] the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously.

Psalms 96:11

Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof.

Colossians 1:13

Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated [us] into the kingdom of his dear Son:

Psalms 99:1

¶ The LORD reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth [between] the cherubims; let the earth be moved.

Psalms 93:1

¶ The LORD reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the LORD is clothed with strength, [wherewith] he hath girded himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot be moved.

Psalms 98:4

¶ Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise.

Psalms 98:6

With trumpets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise before the LORD, the King.