Psalms 96:7 (KJV)

What does Psalms 96:7 mean?

Psalms 96:7 calls on all the families or groups among the nations to give honor and recognition to the LORD, specifically acknowledging His glory and strength. The verse is an invitation for everyone, not just Israel, to recognize God’s greatness.

In this psalm, the speaker is addressing all the "kindreds of the people," meaning every group or clan among the nations, and urging them to give to the LORD (the personal name for God in Hebrew) what is due to Him: glory and strength. The verse is part of a larger song celebrating God’s kingship and inviting the whole world to worship Him.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 96:7

• "Give" (הָבּוּ, havu): This word is a call to present or ascribe something to someone. Here, it means to actively acknowledge or attribute glory and strength to the LORD, not that people can add to God’s power, but that they should recognize it.
• "Kindreds" (מִשְׁפְּחוֹת, mishpechot): This term refers to extended families, clans, or groups within a people. The verse is not just speaking to individuals but to whole communities, emphasizing a collective call to worship.
• "Glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod): This word means weightiness, honor, or splendor. The verse calls for people to recognize the LORD’s majesty and worth.
• "Strength" (עֹז, oz): This word means might or power. The verse highlights that God’s power is something to be acknowledged and celebrated by all peoples.

Why Psalms 96:7 matters

• The verse makes it clear that worship of the LORD is not limited to Israel but is a call to all peoples and nations, showing the universal scope of God’s reign.
• By using words like "kindreds" and "people," the verse emphasizes the collective responsibility of communities to honor God, not just individuals in isolation.
• The focus on "glory and strength" draws attention to specific qualities of God that are to be recognized, helping readers see what it means to truly honor the LORD.