◄ Psalm 47 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Clap Your Hands, All You Peoples For the choirmaster. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. 1 Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph. 2How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth! 3He subdues nations beneath us, and peoples under our feet. 4He chooses our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob, whom He loves. Selah 5God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD with the sound of the horn. 6Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises! 7For God is King of all the earth; sing to Him a psalm of praise.a 8God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne. 9The nobles of the nations have assembled as the people of the God of Abraham; for the shields of the earth belong to God; He is highly exalted. Footnotes: 7 a Or sing a Maskil of praise or sing praises with understanding Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 47 Summary Clap Your Hands, All You Peoples Verses 1–2 – Universal Call to Celebrate God’s Kingship The psalm opens with an energetic summons: every nation is urged to clap, shout, and rejoice because “the LORD Most High” already rules the whole earth. Joy is not reserved for Israel alone; all peoples are invited to praise the God whose authority is absolute. Verses 3–4 – God’s Victory and Favor The focus turns to God’s past acts: He has subdued hostile nations and secured Israel’s place in the land. The inheritance is “the pride of Jacob, whom He loves,” reminding readers that the land and every blessing in it come by God’s choice, not human effort. Verses 5–6 – The Ascending King and the Choir of Praise God is pictured as ascending to His throne accompanied by “shouts of joy” and the blast of a ram’s horn. The response is four rapid commands: “Sing praises… sing praises… sing praises… sing praises!” Enthronement and praise are inseparable. Verses 7–9 – The Global Throne The closing lines widen the lens again: God “reigns over the nations” and sits on “His holy throne.” Leaders of the earth gather to honor the “God of Abraham,” acknowledging that “the shields of the earth belong to God.” The psalm ends with the King “highly exalted,” reigning without rival. Psalm 47, a song of the Sons of Korah, is a psalm of jubilant praise and celebration, acknowledging the sovereignty of God over all the earth. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's universal reign, inviting all nations and peoples to rejoice in His rule. Authorship and Musical Direction • Superscription: “For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. A psalm.” • The Korahite singers were Levites assigned to temple worship (1 Chron 9:19, 23). Their legacy ties this psalm to public praise services, likely accompanied by horns and stringed instruments. Historical and Cultural Context • Some scholars connect Psalm 47 to the miraculous deliverance from the Assyrians in Hezekiah’s day (2 Kings 19). The language of nations being placed “under our feet” and God “ascending” fits a victory celebration after God’s intervention. • The psalm was also used in Israel’s annual festival cycle, possibly during the Feast of Trumpets when the shofar announced God’s kingship (Leviticus 23:24). • Ancient Near Eastern coronations included acclamation, music, and a king ascending steps to a throne. Psalm 47 deliberately re-frames that imagery around the true King. Literary Flow 1. Universal summons (vv. 1-2) 2. Recollection of divine victories (vv. 3-4) 3. Liturgical scene—God ascends, worshipers sing (vv. 5-6) 4. Universal reign affirmed (vv. 7-9) The outer layers (global praise) enclose the inner layers (Israel’s history and present worship), creating a concentric effect that emphasizes God’s kingship over both Israel and the nations. Key Themes • God is King of all the earth (Psalm 24:1; 1 Chron 29:11-12). • Joyful, audible worship—clapping, shouting, singing—is fitting for such a King (Psalm 98:4; Isaiah 55:12). • God grants inheritance; He alone secures the land (Deuteronomy 4:20; 32:9). • Nations are ultimately accountable to God (Psalm 2:10-12; Revelation 11:15). Links to the Broader Biblical Story • Verse 4 connects to God’s covenant with Abraham promising land and blessing (Genesis 12:7; 13:14-17). • The “ascended” imagery (v. 5) echoes Psalm 68:18, later cited in Ephesians 4:8 as fulfilled when Christ ascended into heaven. • The gathering of “nobles of the nations” (v. 9) foreshadows Isaiah 2:2-4 and Zechariah 14:16, where all nations stream to Jerusalem to worship. • Revelation 19 depicts heaven erupting in loud praise at the final public revelation of King Jesus—an ultimate fulfillment of Psalm 47’s call. Messianic and Prophetic Echoes • God’s ascension and enthronement prefigure the Messiah’s resurrection and ascension (Acts 1:9-11). • Jesus is the true “King of Kings” (Revelation 17:14), gathering people from every tribe and tongue (Revelation 5:9-10). • The psalm’s repeated emphasis on global praise anticipates the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). Connections to the New Testament • Hebrews 1:3 presents Christ seated at the right hand of Majesty—clear royal imagery paralleling Psalm 47:8. • 1 Thessalonians 4:16 mentions “the trumpet call of God,” reflecting the shofar blast in verse 5. • Romans 15:10 cites Psalm 47’s broader idea: “Rejoice, O nations, with His people.” Worship and Application • Worship is meant to be wholehearted and joyful. Physical expressions (clapping, shouting) are biblical, not merely cultural. • God’s past victories fuel present praise. Remembering personal and communal deliverance strengthens faith. • Nations, governments, and leaders rise and fall, but God’s throne stands. Believers can live confidently under His final authority. • The psalm invites every people group. Sharing the gospel is consistent with God’s global vision in Psalm 47. Archaeological and Geographical Notes • Ram’s horns (shofarot) dating to the Iron Age have been unearthed around Jerusalem, underscoring the historicity of trumpet worship. • Inscriptions from surrounding nations often titled their rulers “king of the four quarters” or “king of the universe.” Psalm 47 boldly applies that language to the LORD alone. • Excavations at the City of David reveal stepped stone structures where processional ascents likely occurred, providing a concrete backdrop for verse 5’s “God has ascended.” Language Highlights • “Most High” (Hebrew ‘Elyon) appears first in Genesis 14:18-20; it underlines God’s undisputed supremacy. • “Sing praises” repeats five times in rapid succession (vv. 6-7), capturing urgency and delight. • “Shields of the earth” (v. 9) is a poetic term for military commanders, implying that every defense system ultimately belongs to God. Practical Takeaways • Praise is a response to who God is, not just what He does. • National pride should give way to global worship, because God’s kingdom crosses every border. • Times of deliverance warrant public, vocal thanksgiving. • The coming rule of Christ encourages hope amid current political upheaval. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 2:9-11 Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name above all names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should 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. Revelation 19:6 Then I heard a sound like the roar of a great multitude, like the rushing of many waters, and like a mighty rumbling of thunder, crying out: 'Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns.' Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!' Teaching Points Universal Call to Worship Psalm 47:1 begins with a call to Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph. This verse emphasizes that worship is not limited to a specific group but is a universal invitation to all people to acknowledge God's greatness. God's Sovereignty Verse 2 declares, How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth! This highlights God's supreme authority and power over all creation, reminding us that He is the ultimate ruler. Victory and Inheritance Verses 3-4 speak of God subduing nations and choosing our inheritance. This reflects God's active role in history and His provision for His people, ensuring their victory and blessing. Exaltation of God In verses 5-7, the psalmist describes God ascending with shouts of joy and the sound of trumpets, urging us to Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises! This repetition underscores the importance of exalting God through song and celebration. God's Reign Over Nations Verses 8-9 affirm that God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne. This reassures us of God's control over world affairs and His ultimate plan for humanity. Practical Applications Engage in Joyful Worship Incorporate clapping, singing, and shouting into your worship as expressions of joy and reverence for God. Acknowledge God's Authority In your daily life, recognize God's sovereignty in every situation, trusting His plan and purpose. Celebrate God's Victories Reflect on the victories God has given you and express gratitude for His provision and guidance. Participate in Corporate Worship Join with others in communal worship, recognizing the power of collective praise in glorifying God. Pray for Nations Intercede for world leaders and nations, asking God to guide them according to His will and purpose. People 1. God The central figure in Psalm 47, God is depicted as the sovereign ruler over all the earth. The Psalm emphasizes His kingship and authority, calling for all peoples to praise Him. The Hebrew word used for God here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), which is a common term for God in the Hebrew Bible, denoting His power and majesty. 2. Peoples/Nations The Psalm refers to the "peoples" or "nations" who are called to clap their hands and shout to God with cries of joy. This highlights the universal call to worship God, recognizing His dominion over all the earth. The Hebrew word "עַמִּים" (amim) is used, which means peoples or nations. 3. The Sons of Korah While not directly mentioned in the text of the Psalm itself, the title of the Psalm attributes it to the "Sons of Korah," who were a group of Levitical singers and composers in the temple. They are responsible for the composition and performance of this Psalm. Places 1. Earth The psalm speaks of God being the King over all the earth (Psalm 47:2, 7). The Hebrew word used here is "אֶרֶץ" (erets), which generally refers to the land or the world as a whole. 2. Nations The psalm mentions that God subdues peoples and nations under His feet (Psalm 47:3). The Hebrew word for nations is "גּוֹיִם" (goyim), indicating the various peoples and countries of the world. 3. Jacob The psalm refers to the "pride of Jacob" whom God loves (Psalm 47:4). This is a reference to the descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, and by extension, the land associated with them. 4. Heaven While not explicitly named, the psalm implies God's heavenly throne as it speaks of God reigning over the nations and sitting on His holy throne (Psalm 47:8). The concept of heaven as God's dwelling place is a common biblical theme. Events 1. Call to Praise The psalm begins with a call for all peoples to "Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph" (Psalm 47:1). The Hebrew word for "clap" (תָּקַע, taqa) implies a loud, enthusiastic expression of joy. 2. Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty The psalmist declares, "For the LORD Most High is awesome, a great King over all the earth" (Psalm 47:2). The term "Most High" (עֶלְיוֹן, Elyon) emphasizes God's supreme authority. 3. God's Victory Over Nations The psalm describes how God "subdues peoples under us and nations beneath our feet" (Psalm 47:3). This reflects God's power and control over the nations. 4. Inheritance for His People The psalmist notes that God "chooses our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob, whom He loves" (Psalm 47:4). The word "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) signifies a divinely appointed possession. 5. God's Ascension The psalm proclaims, "God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD with the sound of the horn" (Psalm 47:5). The Hebrew word for "ascended" (עָלָה, alah) can imply a movement to a higher place, often associated with enthronement. 6. Call to Sing Praises The psalmist urges, "Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises" (Psalm 47:6). The repetition emphasizes the importance of worship through song. 7. God's Reign Over the Nations The psalm declares, "For God is King of all the earth; sing profound praises" (Psalm 47:7). The term "profound" (מַשְׂכִּיל, maskil) suggests a wise or skillful song. 8. God's Rule from His Holy Throne The psalmist states, "God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne" (Psalm 47:8). The imagery of the "holy throne" (כִּסֵּא, kisse) signifies divine authority and holiness. 9. Gathering of the Nations The psalm concludes with, "The nobles of the nations assemble as the people of the God of Abraham, for the shields of the earth belong to God; He is highly exalted" (Psalm 47:9). The "shields" (מָגֵן, magen) symbolize protection and power, indicating God's dominion. Lessons from Psalm 47 1. Celebrate God's Sovereignty Psalm 47 opens with a call to "Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph" (Psalm 47:1). This verse reminds us to celebrate God's sovereignty with joy and enthusiasm. Recognizing that God is in control of all things can bring peace and confidence into our daily lives. When we acknowledge His supreme authority, we can face challenges with a triumphant spirit, knowing that He is guiding our steps. 2. Embrace the Joy of Worship The psalmist encourages us to worship with joy, stating, "For the LORD Most High is awesome, the great King over all the earth" (Psalm 47:2). Worship is not just a duty but a delight. When we approach God with a heart full of joy, we align ourselves with His purpose and experience the fullness of His presence. Let your worship be a daily expression of gratitude and reverence. 3. Recognize God's Universal Reign Psalm 47:3 declares, "He subdues nations beneath us, and peoples under our feet." This verse highlights God's universal reign over all nations and peoples. Understanding that God is the ultimate ruler of the world can inspire us to trust in His plan, even when global events seem chaotic. His reign assures us that justice and righteousness will ultimately prevail. 4. Find Security in God's Choice The psalmist reminds us, "He chooses our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob, whom He loves" (Psalm 47:4). This verse speaks to the security we find in God's choices for our lives. Trusting in His divine wisdom allows us to rest in the knowledge that He has a perfect plan for each of us. Embrace the inheritance He has chosen, knowing it is crafted with love and purpose. 5. Proclaim God's Ascension "God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD with the sound of trumpets" (Psalm 47:5). This imagery of God ascending reminds us of His exalted position. As believers, we are called to proclaim His greatness and share the good news of His reign. Let your life be a testament to His ascension, reflecting His glory in all you do. 6. Sing Praises with Understanding The psalmist urges us to "Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises" (Psalm 47:6). Singing praises with understanding means engaging both heart and mind in worship. As you sing, meditate on the truths of God's character and His works. This deepens your connection with Him and enriches your spiritual journey. 7. Acknowledge God's Kingship "For God is King of all the earth; sing profound praises" (Psalm 47:7). Acknowledging God's kingship over the earth encourages us to live with a kingdom mindset. This perspective shifts our focus from earthly concerns to eternal values. Let His kingship guide your decisions and actions, aligning them with His will. 8. Unite Under God's Rule Psalm 47:8 states, "God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne." This verse calls us to unity under God's rule. Despite our differences, we are all part of His creation, and His throne is a symbol of peace and justice. Strive for unity in your community, reflecting the harmony found in God's kingdom. 9. Witness the Gathering of Nations "The nobles of the nations assemble as the people of the God of Abraham" (Psalm 47:9). This verse envisions a future where all nations gather in worship. As believers, we are part of this divine assembly, called to witness and participate in God's redemptive plan. Share the hope of this gathering with others, inviting them to join in the worship of the one true God. 10. Trust in God's Exalted Position The psalm concludes with, "For the shields of the earth belong to God; He is highly exalted" (Psalm 47:9). Trusting in God's exalted position means relying on His protection and provision. He holds the "shields of the earth," ensuring our safety and security. Let this assurance embolden you to live boldly for His glory, knowing that He is your ultimate defender. Topics 1. Call to Worship and Praise (Verse 1) The psalm begins with an invitation to all peoples to "Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph." This call to worship emphasizes the universal nature of God's reign and the joy that should accompany the acknowledgment of His sovereignty. The Hebrew word for "shout" (רוּעַ, ruach) conveys a sense of loud, jubilant acclamation. 2. God's Sovereignty and Majesty (Verse 2) The psalmist declares, "How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth." This verse highlights God's supreme authority and majesty, using the Hebrew word "נורא" (nora), meaning "awesome" or "fearsome," to describe the reverence due to God. 3. God's Victory and Dominion (Verses 3-4) These verses speak of God's power in subduing nations and choosing an inheritance for His people: "He subdues nations beneath us, and peoples under our feet. He chooses our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob, whom He loves." The imagery of subduing nations reflects God's control over earthly powers, and the reference to "the pride of Jacob" underscores the special relationship between God and His chosen people. 4. God's Ascension and Reign (Verses 5-7) The psalm describes God ascending with shouts of joy and the sound of trumpets: "God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD with the sound of trumpets. Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises!" The repetition of "sing praises" (זמרו, zamru) emphasizes the importance of worship and adoration in response to God's exalted position. 5. Universal Kingship of God (Verses 8-9) The concluding verses affirm God's reign over all nations: "God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne. The nobles of the nations assemble as the people of the God of Abraham, for the shields of the earth belong to God; He is highly exalted." This passage highlights the gathering of nations under God's rule and the acknowledgment of His ultimate authority, with "shields of the earth" symbolizing protection and power belonging to God. Themes 1. Universal Praise for God Psalm 47 begins with a call for all nations to praise God: "Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph" (Psalm 47:1). The Hebrew word for "peoples" (עַמִּים, 'amim) emphasizes the inclusivity of this call, indicating that God's sovereignty and majesty are recognized universally. 2. God's Sovereignty and Kingship The psalm emphasizes God's rule over all the earth: "For the LORD Most High is awesome, a great King over all the earth" (Psalm 47:2). The Hebrew term for "King" (מֶלֶךְ, melek) underscores His supreme authority and governance over all creation. 3. Divine Victory and Inheritance The psalm speaks of God's victory and the inheritance given to His people: "He subdues nations beneath us, and peoples under our feet" (Psalm 47:3). This reflects the Hebrew concept of God as a warrior and provider, ensuring the security and prosperity of His chosen people. 4. God's Chosen People and Heritage The psalm highlights the special status of Israel as God's chosen people: "He chooses our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob, whom He loves" (Psalm 47:4). The term "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) signifies the land and blessings promised to the descendants of Jacob. 5. God's Ascension and Reign The imagery of God ascending is a central theme: "God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD with the sound of trumpets" (Psalm 47:5). The Hebrew verb for "ascended" (עָלָה, 'alah) conveys the idea of God taking His rightful place of authority and honor. 6. Call to Worship and Sing Praises The psalm repeatedly calls for worship through song: "Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises" (Psalm 47:6). The repetition of the Hebrew verb for "sing" (זָמַר, zamar) emphasizes the importance of joyful and continuous worship. 7. God's Reign Over the Nations The psalm concludes with the affirmation of God's dominion over all nations: "God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne" (Psalm 47:8). The imagery of God seated on a throne (כִּסֵּא, kise) symbolizes His ultimate authority and judgment over the world. 8. Unity of Peoples Under God's Rule The final verses envision a gathering of nations under God's rule: "The nobles of the nations assemble as the people of the God of Abraham" (Psalm 47:9). This reflects the prophetic vision of unity and peace among diverse peoples, united in worship of the one true God. Prayer Points Praise for God's Sovereignty Thank God for His supreme authority and control over all things. Gratitude for God's Provision Express gratitude for the victories and blessings God has provided in your life. Intercession for Nations Pray for peace and righteousness to prevail among the nations, and for leaders to seek God's wisdom. Commitment to Worship Ask God to help you engage in sincere and joyful worship, both individually and corporately. Trust in God's Plan Pray for the faith to trust in God's plan and purpose, even when circumstances are challenging. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Psalm 47:2’s claim of God’s universal rule align with scientific understandings of a vast universe beyond ancient Israel’s worldview? 2. Why does Psalm 47:3’s description of subduing nations lack clear archaeological or historical traces of this alleged domination? 3. If Psalm 47:4 says God chooses Israel’s inheritance, why do other Bible passages suggest different territorial boundaries and covenants? 4. How does Psalm 47:8’s assertion that God reigns over all nations reconcile with the presence of countless other religions and deities throughout history? 5. Does the call to “sing praises” in Psalm 47:6–7 conflict with other biblical texts that depict God differently or demand alternative forms of worship? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Psalm 47 encourage us to express our worship to God? 2. What does it mean to say God is the "great King over all the earth"? 3. How does the depiction of God's reign in Psalm 47 apply to our world today? 4. What does the reference to the "shields of the earth" symbolize? 5. How can we live out the call to "Sing praises to God, sing praises" in our daily lives? 6. What can we learn from the recognition of God's reign over all nations in a world filled with national and racial divisions? 7. How might understanding God's sovereignty over all nations impact how we interact with people of other cultures and countries? 8. What does God's choosing of His people’s inheritance tell us about His character? 9. How can the message of Psalm 47 bring comfort in times of global uncertainty or crisis? 10. How does the Psalmist's joy in God's reign inspire us to find joy in our circumstances today? 11. How can we practically acknowledge God's reign in our lives as individuals and as a community? 12. What does the repeated call to "Sing praises" teach us about the importance of praise in our relationship with God? 13. How does the image of God ascending amid shouts and trumpet sound reflect on His majesty and victory? 14. If God is the King over all the earth, how should this reality affect our actions towards preserving our environment? 15. How does the concept of God's universal reign challenge the way you view political and social power structures today? 16. Reflect on a situation where you felt powerless. How would acknowledging God's sovereignty help you cope with such a situation? 17. What are some tangible ways we can rejoice in God's reign in our day-to-day lives? 18. How can understanding the universal reign of God influence our approach to international missions or charity work? 19. How should we respond when the rulership of earthly leaders disappoints us, keeping in mind the kingship of God? 20. Given that "God reigns over the nations", how should we as Christians approach conversations and actions regarding social justice? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions