Psalms 98:7 (KJV)

What does Psalms 98:7 mean?

Psalms 98:7 calls on the sea and everything in it, along with the whole world and all its inhabitants, to join in a joyful noise. The verse pictures all of creation responding together in celebration, as if the natural world itself is invited to praise.

The psalmist is addressing not just people but the entire earth, using poetic language to include the sea, its creatures, and everyone living in the world. This verse is part of a larger song celebrating God's power and salvation, showing that the joy is so great it overflows beyond humanity to all creation.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 98:7

• יָם (yam, "sea"): This word refers to the great body of water, often representing the vastness and power of nature. Including the sea highlights that even the most untamable parts of creation are called to join in praise.
• יריע (yari'a, "roar"): This verb means to make a loud noise, often used for the sound of a crowd or, here, the crashing of the sea. It suggests exuberance and energy, not just a quiet acknowledgment.
• מְלוֹא (melo, "fulness"): This word points to everything that fills the sea—the creatures, the activity, the life within. The verse is not just about the water itself but everything it contains.
• תֵּבֵל (tevel, "world"): This term often means the inhabited world, emphasizing the people and living things on earth, not just the land itself.
• יָשַׁב (yashav, "dwell"): This verb means to live or reside, focusing on those who make their home in the world. The verse includes all who dwell on earth, not just a select group.

Why Psalms 98:7 matters

• Psalms 98:7 clears up any idea that worship is only for people; it shows that the psalmist sees all creation as part of the celebration.
• The verse emphasizes the theme of universal praise, connecting nature and humanity in a shared response to God's greatness.
• By inviting the sea and the world to "roar" and rejoice, the psalm sets up a vivid, joyful scene that continues through the rest of the psalm, highlighting the scope and energy of the praise being described.