King James Version
Psalm 47
Belonging to Book II of the Psalter, Psalm 47 is an exuberant hymn of praise celebrating God as the sovereign ruler over all nations. The Korahite psalmist calls all peoples to clap their hands and shout with joy as the King ascends amidst trumpets and acclamations. The poem emphasizes that divine authority extends beyond Israel to include the princes of the earth, gathering humanity into unified worship. It serves as a triumphant enthronement psalm praising universal lordship. A key verse articulates this global reign: "For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding." (Psalm 47:7).
1 O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.
2 For the LORD most high is terrible; he is a great King over all the earth.
3 He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet.
4 He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah.
5 God is gone up with a shout, the LORD with the sound of a trumpet.
6 Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises.
7 For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding.
8 God reigneth over the heathen: God sitteth upon the throne of his holiness.
9 The princes of the people are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted.
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