Bible Glide

Psalms 47

Psalms 47 Summary, Context, and Full Chapter

Psalm 47 is a short, triumphant call for all peoples to praise the LORD. It centers on God as the great King who rules over every nation, gives His people their inheritance, and is exalted above all earthly power.

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What happens in Psalms 47?

The psalm opens with a command for every people to clap, shout, and sing with joy because the LORD Most High reigns as King over the whole earth. It speaks of God subduing nations, choosing an inheritance for His people, and ascending amid celebration. The repeated call to praise highlights His royal authority and holiness. The closing verses expand the vision to the nations themselves, gathering under God's rule, with all defenses and power ultimately belonging to Him.

Psalm 47 is attributed to the sons of Korah and follows a pair of psalms that stress God's protection and rule. It fits within this section of Psalms as a hymn of victory and kingship, pointing beyond Israel to God's authority over all peoples and nations.

Themes to notice

  • God as KingThe psalm presents the LORD as the supreme ruler over the earth and every nation.
  • Praise and JoyThe repeated commands to clap, sing, and shout show worship shaped by celebration and awe.
  • God's Rule Over NationsThe passage pictures earthly powers submitting to God's reign and authority.

Questions for Psalms 47

  • What stands out to you about the way this psalm calls people to praise God?
  • How does Psalm 47 shape your view of God's authority over nations and leaders?
  • What does it mean for God to be King over all the earth in daily life?

Read the full text of Psalms 47 below, then open it in the reader to highlight, take notes, or ask follow-up Bible questions. No account is required to read.

Psalms 47

Clap Your Hands, All You Peoples

For the choirmaster. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.

1Clap your hands, all you peoples;

shout unto God with a voice of triumph.

2How awesome is the LORD Most High,

the great King over all the earth!

3He subdues nations beneath us,

and peoples under our feet.

4He chooses our inheritance for us,

the pride of Jacob, whom He loves.

Selah

5God has ascended amid shouts of joy,

the LORD with the sound of the horn.

6Sing praises to God, sing praises;

sing praises to our King, sing praises!

7For God is King of all the earth;

sing profound praises to Him.

8God reigns over the nations;

God is seated on His holy throne.

9The nobles of the nations have assembled

as the people of the God of Abraham;

for the shields of the earth belong to God;

He is highly exalted.

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