47:1
People clap their hands in praise and recognition of wonderful deeds (Psalm 47:3–4; see 98:8; Isaiah 55:12; compare Nahum 3:19).
Study notes
Psalms 47
47:1–2
As the ruler of all nations, God deserves praise.
47:1–9
This psalm praises God's rule as king over the entire earth. It describes God's victory with Israel and other nations. Both Israel (Psalm 47:3–4) and the nations (47:9) are part of God's kingdom.
47:3–4
The Lord gave Israel victory, especially under David (see Psalm 18:40–50). God's powerful acts of redemption show his love for Israel.
47:4
pride of Jacob: Jacob was the father of all Israelites (Genesis 32:28). The name Jacob often represents the nation of Israel.
God loves and commits himself to Jacob (see Psalms 78:68; 127:2; see Romans 11:28).
47:5
horn: Or rams’ horns (see Psalm 81:3). People sometimes blew rams’ horns during celebrations (Psalm 98:5–6; 2 Kings 11:14; 1 Chronicles 15:28).
47:5–6
The psalmist describes the Lord as returning to heaven, having accomplished his victories. For a description of his descent, see Psalm 18:9–16.
47:7
People from all over the world (see Psalm 96:1–3) will worship God.
Verse notes: Adapted by Mission Mutual (Aquifer Open Study Notes) from Tyndale Open Study Notes © 2023 Tyndale House Publishers. CC BY-SA 4.0. Section notes: Biblica Study Notes © 2023 Biblica, Inc. CC BY-SA 4.0, via BibleAquifer. About the sources