The majesty of God's kingdom.

97:1 Yahweh reigns!
Let the earth rejoice!
Let the multitude of islands be glad!

97:2 Clouds and darkness are around him.
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.

Isaiah 30:27

97:3 A fire goes before him,
and burns up his adversaries on every side.

Zephaniah 3:8

97:4 His lightning lights up the world.
The earth sees, and trembles.

97:5 The mountains melt like wax at the presence of Yahweh,
at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.

97:6 The heavens declare his righteousness.
All the peoples have seen his glory.

The church rejoices at God's judgments upon idolaters.

97:7 Let all them be shamed who serve engraved images,
who boast in their idols.
Worship him, all you gods!

97:8 Zion heard and was glad.
The daughters of Judah rejoiced,
because of your judgments, Yahweh.

97:9 For you, Yahweh, are most high above all the earth.
You are exalted far above all gods.

An exhortation to godliness and gladness.

97:10 You who love Yahweh, hate evil.
He preserves the souls of his saints.
He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked.

97:11 Light is sown for the righteous,
and gladness for the upright in heart.

97:12 Be glad in Yahweh, you righteous people!
Give thanks to his holy Name.