Old Testament
Psalms 97
Cosmic Theophany and the Joy of the Righteous
Overview
Psalm 97 unfolds from a thunderous proclamation of Yahweh's kingship accompanied by fire, lightning, and trembling creation, through the humiliation of idolaters and the exultant joy of Zion at his universal reign, to a closing call for the righteous to hate evil and rejoice, trusting that light and gladness are already being prepared for those who love God.
Passages
Study Resources
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Psalms 97
1Yahweh reigns! Let the earth rejoice! Let the multitude of islands be glad!
2Clouds and darkness are around him. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3A fire goes before him, and burns up his adversaries on every side.
4His lightning lights up the world. The earth sees, and trembles.
5The mountains melt like wax at the presence of Yahweh, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.
6The heavens declare his righteousness. All the peoples have seen his glory.
7Let all them be shamed who serve engraved images, who boast in their idols. Worship him, all you gods!
8Zion heard and was glad. The daughters of Judah rejoiced because of your judgments, Yahweh.
9For you, Yahweh, are most high above all the earth. You are exalted far above all gods.
10You who love Yahweh, hate evil! He preserves the souls of his saints. He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked.
11Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.
12Be glad in Yahweh, you righteous people! Give thanks to his holy Name.