Psalm 47 Meaning Explained

A coronation shout for the universal King. It commands all peoples to clap and shout, not in rebellion (Psalm 2) but in submission. God ascends His throne amid fanfare, having subdued nations. The theology is inclusive: 'the shields of the earth belong to God.' It's a prophetic celebration of God's reign over all ethnicities, a vision of political theology fulfilled.

A clear explanation of Psalm 47, its meaning, context, and message for believers today

Psalms Chapter 47 | KJV

1. To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. 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.

Historical Context

Psalm 47, attributed to the sons of Korah, is a hymn of celebration proclaiming God as King over all the earth.