Psalms 47:1

Authorized King James Version

O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כָּֽל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הָ֭עַמִּים

H5971

all ye people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

תִּקְעוּ

H8628

O clap

to clatter, i.e., slap (the hands together), clang (an instrument); by analogy, to drive (a nail or tent-pin, a dart, etc.); by implication, to become

כָ֑ף

H3709

your hands

the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-

הָרִ֥יעוּ

H7321

shout

to mar (especially by breaking); figuratively, to split the ears (with sound), i.e., shout (for alarm or joy)

לֵ֝אלֹהִ֗ים

H430

unto God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

בְּק֣וֹל

H6963

with the voice

a voice or sound

רִנָּֽה׃

H7440

of triumph

properly, a creaking (or shrill sound), i.e., shout (of joy or grief)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?