Psalms 24:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 24:7
7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
Chapter Context
Psalms 24 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, faith, salvation. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-10: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 24:7
7 Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
Analysis
The command to gates—'Lift up your heads, O ye gates'—personifies Jerusalem's entryway, calling them to prepare for the King's arrival. The question 'Who is this King of glory?' creates dramatic anticipation. Reformed theology sees Christ's triumphal entry (Palm Sunday) and His ascension fulfilling this imagery. When Christ enters, all barriers must yield. The repetition in verse 9 emphasizes the importance and certainty of the King's victorious entrance.
Historical Context
This may have been sung when the Ark entered Jerusalem (2 Sam. 6) or during festival processions. The antiphonal question-answer format created liturgical drama, teaching congregants about God's character through participatory worship.
Reflection
- What 'gates' in your life need to 'lift up' to welcome the King of glory?
- How does Christ's victorious entry into heaven affect your daily confidence?
Word Studies
- Glory: כָּבוֹד (Kavod) H3519 - Glory, weight, honor
Cross-References
- Glory: Psalms 97:6, 1 Kings 8:11, Haggai 2:7, 1 Corinthians 2:8, Revelation 4:11
- Parallel theme: Psalms 132:8, 2 Samuel 6:17, Isaiah 26:2, Malachi 3:1, 1 Peter 3:22