This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.

PSALMS 118:24KJV
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Psalms 118:24 (KJV)

What does Psalms 118:24 mean?

Psalms 118:24 declares that the day being experienced is one that the LORD has created, and calls people to respond with joy and gladness. The verse is an invitation to recognize God's hand in the present moment and to celebrate it together.

The psalm is traditionally attributed to an individual or group giving thanks to God, likely after a significant deliverance or victory. The speaker addresses a gathered community, encouraging them to see this specific day as a gift from the LORD (the personal name for God in the Hebrew Bible). The focus is on collective rejoicing, highlighting both gratitude and shared celebration as a response to God's actions.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 118:24

  • "day" (יוֹם, yom): This word refers to a specific period of time, often a literal day. Here, it emphasizes the uniqueness and significance of the moment being celebrated.
  • "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, underscoring that it is Israel’s God who has made this day, not just any deity or force.
  • "made" (עָשָׂה, asah): This verb means "to make" or "to do." The verse credits God as the one who actively brought about this day, suggesting intentionality and purpose.
  • "rejoice" (גִּיל, gil): This word carries the sense of exulting or expressing great joy, often with physical movement or loud praise.
  • "glad" (שָׂמַח, samach): This verb means to be glad or to experience happiness, highlighting the emotional response expected from the people.

Why Psalms 118:24 matters

  • Psalms 118:24 is sometimes quoted as a general encouragement, but in context, it refers to a specific day of deliverance or celebration, deepening its meaning as a response to God's saving work.
  • The verse emphasizes communal joy, not just individual happiness, showing that gratitude and celebration are meant to be shared experiences.
  • Recognizing the LORD (YHWH) as the one who "made" the day connects this moment to God's ongoing involvement and care in the lives of His people, reinforcing trust and thankfulness.