Berean Standard Bible · Public domain

Psalm 47

Israel’s prayers give language for praise, grief, repentance, and trust. Poetry uses imagery and parallel lines; each psalm should be read as a whole rather than as a detached promise.

Historical context & book outline

1For the choirmaster. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph.

2How awesome is the LORD Most High, the great King over all the earth!

3He subdues nations beneath us, and peoples under our feet.

4He chooses our inheritance for us, the pride of Jacob, whom He loves. Selah

5God has ascended amid shouts of joy, the LORD with the sound of the horn.

6Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises!

7For God is King of all the earth; sing to Him a psalm of praise.

8God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne.

9The nobles of the nations have assembled as the people of the God of Abraham; for the shields of the earth belong to God; He is highly exalted.

Read closely

  1. What repeated words, contrasts, or actions stand out in this chapter?
  2. How does this chapter fit the surrounding chapters and the book’s purpose?
  3. What did it communicate to its first hearers, before applying it to your life?