The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof.

PSALMS 97:1KJV
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Psalms 97:1 (KJV)

What does Psalms 97:1 mean?

Psalms 97:1 declares that the LORD is the one who rules over everything, and because of this, all the earth and even the distant islands should celebrate and be glad. The verse calls everyone, no matter where they are, to recognize God's kingship and respond with joy.

This psalm is a song of praise, likely sung by the people of Israel, expressing their belief that God (the LORD) is the true king over the whole world. The mention of the "multitude of isles" points to far-off places, showing that God's rule is not limited to Israel but extends everywhere. The verse sets a tone of joy and celebration because of God's authority.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 97:1

  • LORD (יְהוָה, Yahweh): This is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing that it is Israel’s covenant God who reigns, not just a generic deity.
  • reigneth (מָלַךְ, malakh): This word means to rule as king. It stresses that God's authority is active and ongoing, not just a title but a present reality.
  • isles (אִי, ’iy): This word often refers to distant coastlands or remote islands. Its use here highlights that God's reign reaches even the farthest, most remote places, not just the land of Israel.

Why Psalms 97:1 matters

  • This verse makes clear that God's rule is not just for one nation but is meant to be recognized by the whole earth, including people in far-off places.
  • The call for the earth and the isles to rejoice shows that God's reign is good news, bringing joy and hope rather than fear.
  • By starting the psalm with this declaration, the rest of the passage is framed as a celebration of God's universal kingship and the joy it brings to all creation.

Where else these words appear

“isles” Hebrew H339 · used in 35 verses

  • Genesis 10:5 By these were the isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands; every one after his tongue, after their families, in their nations.
  • Isaiah 42:4 He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.
  • Jeremiah 31:10 Hear the word of the LORD, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock.

“rejoice” Hebrew H1523 · used in 44 verses

  • 1 Chronicles 16:31 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The LORD reigneth.
  • Psalms 89:16 In thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted.
  • Isaiah 35:2 It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, and the excellency of our God.

“glad” Hebrew H8055 · used in 145 verses

  • Exodus 4:14 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, Is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart.
  • Psalms 33:21 For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.
  • Proverbs 17:21 He that begetteth a fool doeth it to his sorrow: and the father of a fool hath no joy.