Psalms 117:1 (KJV)

What does Psalms 117:1 mean?

Psalms 117:1 is a call for all nations and all people everywhere to praise the LORD. The verse invites everyone, not just Israel, to honor and celebrate God.

The writer of Psalms 117:1 is calling out to the entire world, not just one group or nation. This is unusual in the Psalms, which often focus on Israel. The verse uses broad language to include every nation and all people, showing that the invitation to praise God is universal and not limited by ethnicity or geography.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 117:1

• "praise" (הַלְלוּ, halal): This word means to boast about, celebrate, or shine a light on someone’s greatness. Here, it is a joyful, public kind of praise directed at God.
• "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God used in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing God’s unique identity and relationship with His people.
• "nations" (גּוֹיִם, goyim): This word refers to all people groups outside of Israel. Its use here highlights the global scope of the call to praise.
• "praise" (שַׁבְּחוּ, shabbechu): This word means to commend or speak well of someone. It adds another layer to the call, encouraging people to talk about God’s goodness.
• "people" (אֻמִּים, ummim): This term refers to groups or communities of people, again broadening the invitation beyond any single nation.

Why Psalms 117:1 matters

• Psalms 117:1 makes clear that the call to praise God is not just for Israel but for all humanity, which was a striking idea in its original setting.
• The verse uses two different Hebrew words for praise, showing a rich and varied response to God—both celebrating and speaking well of Him.
• By addressing all nations and peoples, Psalms 117:1 connects to larger biblical themes about God’s concern for the whole world, not just one group.