King James Version

What Does Psalms 97:1 Mean?

Psalms 97:1 in the King James Version says “The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof. multitude: Heb. many, or, great is...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 97 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof. multitude: Heb. many, or, great isles”

Psalms 97:1 · KJV

Context

1

The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof. multitude: Heb. many, or, great isles

2

Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne. habitation: or, establishment

3

A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his enemies round about.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This enthronement psalm begins with the proclamation 'The LORD reigneth' (Yahweh malak), establishing divine sovereignty as the foundation for all that follows. The call for the earth to rejoice (samach) and the 'multitude of isles' (coastlands—representing distant nations) to be glad demonstrates that God's reign is universal, not merely local. This cosmic perspective anticipates the Great Commission and the gospel's spread to all nations. True joy originates from recognizing God's rightful rule over all creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Written when Israel was a small nation among great empires, this psalm boldly declares Yahweh's supremacy over all earthly powers, prefiguring the universal kingdom of Christ.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does acknowledging God's reign over all nations affect your prayers for current world events?
  2. What would it look like for you to live with consistent joy grounded in God's sovereignty rather than circumstances?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
יְהוָ֣ה1 of 7

“The LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מָ֭לָךְ2 of 7

“reigneth”

H4427

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

תָּגֵ֣ל3 of 7

“rejoice”

H1523

properly, to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear

הָאָ֑רֶץ4 of 7

“let the earth”

H776

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

יִ֝שְׂמְח֗וּ5 of 7

“be glad”

H8055

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

אִיִּ֥ים6 of 7

“of isles”

H339

properly, a habitable spot (as desirable); dry land, a coast, an island

רַבִּֽים׃7 of 7

“let the multitude”

H7227

abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 97:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 97:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 96:10-11Psalms 99:1Colossians 1:13Psalms 98:4-6Psalms 93:1Isaiah 49:13

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