Psalms 68:32
Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises unto the Lord; Selah:
Original Language Analysis
מַמְלְכ֣וֹת
ye kingdoms
H4467
מַמְלְכ֣וֹת
ye kingdoms
Strong's:
H4467
Word #:
1 of 7
dominion, i.e., (abstractly) the estate (rule) or (concretely) the country (realm)
לֵאלֹהִ֑ים
unto God
H430
לֵאלֹהִ֑ים
unto God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
4 of 7
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
זַמְּר֖וּ
O sing praises
H2167
זַמְּר֖וּ
O sing praises
Strong's:
H2167
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e., play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in so
Historical Context
In the psalmist's day, most kingdoms worshiped false gods and opposed Israel's God. This prophetic vision looked forward to a day when all nations would abandon idolatry for true worship.
Questions for Reflection
- How should the vision of universal worship shape your prayers for current political leaders?
- What would it look like for your nation's government to genuinely 'sing unto the Lord'?
- How does worship of God by all kingdoms relate to Christ's millennial or eternal reign?
Analysis & Commentary
The call for earth's kingdoms to sing to the Lord universalizes worship—not just Israel but ALL kingdoms. This doxological imperative anticipates the Great Commission's call to disciple all nations (Matthew 28:19). The refrain 'Selah' (pause and reflect) invites meditation on this stunning vision: every political entity acknowledging God's sovereignty. Worship becomes the climax of human history.