Psalms 97:1

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

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

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

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

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

Commentary

Psalms 97:1 opens a powerful declaration of God's universal sovereignty, setting the tone for a psalm that celebrates His righteous rule over all creation. The verse proclaims a fundamental truth about the nature of God and invites a joyful response from all corners of the earth.

Context

This verse is the beginning of what is often called an "enthronement psalm" (along with Psalms 93, 95, 96, 98, 99). These psalms focus on the kingship of the LORD, emphasizing His active reign, justice, and the universal implications of His dominion. They likely served as liturgical declarations of God's supreme authority, possibly used in worship or during festivals celebrating God's kingship. The call for the "earth" and "isles" to rejoice points to a universal scope, extending beyond Israel to all nations and distant lands.

Key Themes

  • Divine Sovereignty: The central declaration, "The LORD reigneth," asserts God's ultimate and active control over all things. It's a statement of His eternal and unchallengeable kingship, providing comfort and stability in a chaotic world.
  • Universal Rejoicing: The command "let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad [thereof]" is a call for all creation to celebrate God's rule. This joy stems from the character of His reign, which is founded on righteousness and justice, bringing order and peace rather than tyranny. This echoes themes found in other psalms, such as Psalms 96:11.
  • Global Reach: The inclusion of "the multitude of isles" (often referring to distant coastlands and Gentile nations) highlights that God's dominion is not limited to Israel but extends to every part of the world. This foreshadows the universal scope of God's redemptive plan and the eventual recognition of His rule by all peoples, a vision often seen in prophetic declarations of Christ's kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "reigneth" is malakh (מָלַךְ), which means to be king, to rule, or to be enthroned. It is presented as a present, active participle, signifying an ongoing, dynamic reality: God is not just a king in title, but He is actively ruling and exercising His authority at this very moment. The term "LORD" (KJV, capitalized) represents the divine covenant name, YHWH, emphasizing God's personal, eternal, and active presence as ruler.

Practical Application

For believers today, Psalms 97:1 offers profound comfort and a call to worship. Knowing that the LORD truly reigns means that no earthly power, no personal struggle, and no global crisis is outside of His ultimate control. This truth invites us to:

  • Find Peace: Rest in the assurance that God is on His throne, orchestrating all things according to His perfect will.
  • Live with Joy: Respond to His sovereignty with gladness, knowing His rule brings justice, righteousness, and ultimate good.
  • Proclaim His Kingdom: Share the good news of His reign, inviting others to find hope and joy in His dominion.
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Cross-References

  • Psalms 96:10 (9 votes)

    ¶ 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 (9 votes)

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

  • Colossians 1:13 (6 votes)

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

  • Psalms 99:1 (6 votes)

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

  • Psalms 93:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ 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 (4 votes)

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

  • Psalms 98:6 (4 votes)

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