Read Psalms 97 in the King James Bible (opens in a new tab)
Psalm 97 proclaims the LORD’s reign as the true King over all the earth, calling even the distant “isles” to rejoice because His rule is righteous and holy. The psalm describes His presence with awe-filled imagery—clouds, darkness, fire, lightning—showing that God’s glory is not a tame idea but a consuming reality that exposes and judges. Idolatry is shamed and overthrown, while Zion rejoices because the LORD’s judgments reveal what is true and just. The chapter warns that no rival “god” can stand before Him, and it teaches that joy is inseparable from holiness. It concludes by urging God’s people to hate evil, trust His preserving care, and live as the righteous who will ultimately rejoice in His light.
Psalms 97:1 - 97:12
1 The Lord reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad [thereof].
2 Clouds and darkness [are] round about him: righteousness and judgment [are] the habitation of his throne.
3 A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his enemies round about.
4 His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled.
5 The hills melted like wax at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.
6 The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.
7 Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all [ye] gods.
8 Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O Lord.
9 For thou, Lord, [art] high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.
10 Ye that love the Lord, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.
11 Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.
12 Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.