Psalm 98:6

With trumpets and the blast of the ram's horn shout for joy before the LORD, the King.

Study Bible

With trumpets
The use of "trumpets" in Psalm 98:6 is significant in the context of ancient Israelite worship. The Hebrew word for trumpets here is "chatsotserah," which refers to a long, straight trumpet made of silver. These instruments were used in various religious ceremonies, including the announcement of festivals and the coronation of kings (Numbers 10:2, 10). The sound of the trumpet was a call to attention, a signal of God's presence, and a reminder of His sovereignty. In the context of this psalm, the trumpets symbolize a call to worship and celebrate the Lord's kingship with joy and reverence.

and the blast of the horn
The "horn" mentioned here is the "shofar," a ram's horn traditionally used in Jewish religious practices. The shofar's blast is a powerful symbol of spiritual awakening and repentance. Historically, the shofar was sounded to gather the people, signal the start of a battle, or announce the beginning of a new year during Rosh Hashanah. In this verse, the "blast of the horn" complements the trumpets, creating a symphony of praise that acknowledges God's majesty and calls His people to worship with a sense of awe and reverence.

shout for joy
The phrase "shout for joy" is a call to exuberant and vocal praise. The Hebrew word "rua" conveys a sense of loud, joyful noise, often associated with victory or celebration. This expression of joy is not subdued or reserved; it is a full-hearted, communal outpouring of gratitude and worship. In the context of Psalm 98, this shout is directed towards the Lord, celebrating His righteous acts and His reign over all the earth. It reflects a deep-seated joy that comes from recognizing God's goodness and faithfulness.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" emphasizes the presence of God as the central focus of worship. In Hebrew, "before" is "lifnei," which can also mean "in the presence of." This indicates that the act of worship is not just about the outward expression but is deeply relational, acknowledging God's immediate presence among His people. Worship "before the LORD" is an invitation to enter into a sacred space where the divine and human meet, and where the worshippers are reminded of God's holiness, love, and authority.

the King
Referring to God as "the King" highlights His supreme authority and rule over all creation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a king was seen as the ultimate ruler, protector, and provider for his people. By calling God "the King," the psalmist acknowledges His sovereignty and rightful place as the ruler of the universe. This title also points to the messianic hope found throughout the Scriptures, anticipating the coming of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings, who would establish God's kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. In worship, recognizing God as "the King" calls believers to submit to His will and trust in His perfect governance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The central figure in this verse, representing God as the sovereign King deserving of worship and praise.

2. Trumpets and Horn
Instruments used in ancient Israel for signaling, celebration, and worship, symbolizing the call to praise God with joy.

3. The People of Israel
The implied participants in the act of worship, representing the community of believers called to praise God.

4. The King
A title for God, emphasizing His authority, majesty, and rightful place as ruler over all creation.

5. The Act of Worship
The event of communal praise and celebration before God, highlighting the joy and reverence due to Him.

Teaching Points

Joyful Worship
Worship should be characterized by joy and celebration, reflecting the greatness and majesty of God.

God's Sovereignty
Recognize and honor God as the ultimate King, whose authority extends over all creation.

Communal Praise
Engage in corporate worship, understanding the importance of coming together as a community to honor God.

Symbolism of Instruments
Appreciate the role of music and instruments in worship as a means to express reverence and joy before God.

Anticipation of God's Kingdom
Live with the hope and expectation of God's eternal reign, as symbolized by the trumpet's call.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the use of trumpets and horns in Psalm 98:6 enhance our understanding of worship in ancient Israel?

2. In what ways can we incorporate the joy and celebration described in this verse into our modern worship practices?

3. How does recognizing God as "the King" influence our daily lives and decisions?

4. What are some practical ways we can engage in communal worship that reflects the themes of joy and reverence found in this Psalm?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Revelation 11:15, deepen our understanding of God's eternal kingship and our response to it?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:16-19
The use of trumpets at Mount Sinai when God descended, illustrating the awe and reverence associated with God's presence.

1 Chronicles 15:28
The use of musical instruments, including trumpets, in bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, showing the joy and celebration in worship.

Revelation 11:15
The sounding of the seventh trumpet, proclaiming the kingdom of the world becoming the kingdom of our Lord, connecting the theme of God's eternal kingship.

Psalm 47:5
The imagery of God ascending with a shout and the sound of a trumpet, reinforcing the theme of divine kingship and victory.

Numbers 10:10
The use of trumpets in times of rejoicing and appointed feasts, linking the act of worship with communal celebration and remembrance.