Psalms 47 — Jamieson–Fausset–Brown
47:1
1. clap ... hands ... people--literally, "peoples," or "nations" (compare De 32:43; Psa 18:49; 98:9).
47:2–3
2-3. His universal sovereignty now exists, and will be made known.
47:4
4. He shall ... inheritance--the heathen to be possessed by His Church (Psa 2:8), as Canaan by the Jews. excellency of Jacob--literally, "pride," or, that in which he glories (not necessarily, though often, in a bad sense), the privileges of the chosen people-- whom he loved--His love being the sole cause of granting them.
47:5–7
5-7. God, victorious over His enemies, reascends to heaven, amid the triumphant praises of His people, who celebrate His sovereign dominion. This sovereignty is what the Psalm teaches; hence he adds, sing ... praises with understanding--literally, "sing and play an instructive (Psalm)." The whole typifies Christ's ascension (compare Psa 68:18).
47:8–9
8-9. The instruction continued. throne of ... holiness--or, "holy throne" (see on Psa 2:6; Psa 23:4).