Psalm 47:1

Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph.

Study Bible

Clap your hands
This phrase is a call to express joy and celebration. In the Hebrew context, clapping hands was a common gesture of triumph and rejoicing. The Hebrew word used here is "תִּקְעוּ" (tiq'u), which can also mean to strike or blow, as in blowing a trumpet. This suggests a public and communal expression of joy, akin to a victory shout. Historically, clapping was used in various cultures as a sign of approval or acclamation, and in the context of worship, it signifies the acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and victory.

all you peoples
This phrase emphasizes the universal call to worship. The Hebrew word for peoples, "עַמִּים" (ammim), refers to nations or ethnic groups. This inclusivity highlights the psalmist's vision of all humanity recognizing and celebrating God's kingship. It reflects the biblical theme of God's covenant extending beyond Israel to all nations, as seen in the Abrahamic promise that all nations would be blessed through his descendants (Genesis 12:3).

shout unto God
The act of shouting is a powerful expression of praise and exultation. The Hebrew word "הָרִיעוּ" (hari'u) conveys a sense of raising a loud cry or making a joyful noise. This is not a subdued or private act but a public declaration of God's greatness. In ancient Israel, shouting was often associated with victory in battle or the presence of God, as seen in the fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:20). It signifies the overwhelming joy and reverence for God's mighty acts.

with a voice of triumph
This phrase captures the essence of victorious celebration. The Hebrew word "רִנָּה" (rinnah) can be translated as a shout of joy or a cry of jubilation. It is a vocal expression of triumph, often used in the context of deliverance or salvation. The psalmist calls for a proclamation of God's victory over all earthly powers, reflecting the belief in God's ultimate authority and the hope of His deliverance. This triumph is not just a past event but an ongoing reality for believers, who are called to live in the light of God's victorious reign.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Sons of Korah
The authors of this psalm, a group of Levitical singers and musicians, who played a significant role in temple worship.

2. All You Peoples
Refers to all nations and ethnic groups, emphasizing the universal call to worship God.

3. God
The central figure of worship in this psalm, the one who is to be praised with joy and triumph.

4. The Temple
While not directly mentioned, the context of worship and praise suggests the temple as a central place of gathering and worship.

5. The Event of Worship
The act of clapping and shouting is a communal event of worship, celebrating God's sovereignty and victory.

Teaching Points

Universal Call to Worship
This verse emphasizes that worship is not limited to a specific group but is a call to all peoples. We are reminded that God's sovereignty and goodness are reasons for everyone to celebrate.

Joyful Expression in Worship
The act of clapping and shouting signifies an exuberant and heartfelt expression of worship. Believers are encouraged to express their joy and gratitude to God openly and enthusiastically.

Victory in God
The "voice of triumph" suggests that our worship is rooted in the victory and sovereignty of God. We are reminded that God is in control, and our worship reflects our trust in His ultimate victory.

Community in Worship
The communal aspect of clapping and shouting together highlights the importance of gathering with others in worship. It encourages believers to participate in corporate worship as a vital part of their spiritual life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the call to "clap your hands" and "shout unto God" challenge our typical expressions of worship?

2. In what ways can we incorporate more joyful expressions of worship in our personal and communal worship times?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty and victory influence our attitude in worship?

4. What are some practical ways we can encourage others to join in the universal call to worship God?

5. How can we draw parallels between the communal worship described in Psalm 47:1 and the worship practices in the early church as seen in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 98:4
This verse also calls for joyful noise and celebration, emphasizing the universality of worship.

1 Chronicles 16:31-33
Highlights the earth's rejoicing in God's reign, connecting to the theme of universal praise.

Philippians 4:4
Encourages believers to rejoice in the Lord always, aligning with the call to joyful worship in Psalm 47:1.

Revelation 19:6
Describes a heavenly multitude praising God, echoing the triumphant shout to God in Psalm 47:1.