United Commentaries

Ps.47.1-9

This psalm celebrates God’s kingship over all the earth; it tells of God’s victory in dealing with Israel and the nations. Both Israel (47:3-4) and the nations (47:9) participate in God’s kingdom.

Ps.47.1-2

As the sovereign king over the nations, God requires praise.

Ps.47.1

People clap their hands in praise and recognition of marvelous deeds (47:3-4; see 98:8; Isa 55:12; cp. Nah 3:19).

Ps.47.3-4

The Lord made Israel victorious, especially under David (see 18:40-50). God’s mighty deeds of redemption manifest his love for Israel.

Ps.47.4

Jacob’s descendants: Jacob was the father of all Israelites (Gen 32:28); the name Jacob often represents the nation of Israel.

God loves and commits himself to Jacob (see Pss 78:68; 127:2; see Rom 11:28).

Ps.47.5-6

The psalmist portrays the Lord as returning to heaven, having accomplished his victories. For a portrayal of his descent, see 18:9-16.

Ps.47.5

trumpets: Or rams’ horns (see 81:3). At times, rams’ horns were sounded in celebration (98:5-6; 2 Kgs 11:14; 1 Chr 15:28).

Ps.47.7

People from all the earth (see 96:1-3) will worship God.