Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 97

PSALM 97

Psa 97:1-12. The writer celebrates the Lord's dominion over nations and nature, describes its effect on foes and friends, and exhorts and encourages the latter.

1-2. This dominion is a cause of joy, because, even though our minds are oppressed with terror before the throne of the King of kings (Ex 19:16; De 5:22), we know it is based on righteous principles and judgments which are according to truth.

3-5. The attending illustrations of God's awful justice on enemies (Psa 83:14) are seen in the disclosures of His almighty power on the elements of nature (compare Psa 46:2; 77:17; Ha 3:6, &c.).

6. heavens--or, their inhabitants (Psa 50:6), as opposed to "nations" in the latter clause (compare Is 40:5; 66:18).

7. Idolaters are utterly put to shame, for if angels must worship Him, how much more those who worshipped them.

all ye gods--literally, "all ye angels" (Psa 8:5; 138:1; He 1:6; 2:7). Paul quotes, not as a prophecy, but as language used in regard to the Lord Jehovah, who in the Old Testament theophania is the second person of the Godhead.

8-9. The exaltation of Zion's king is joy to the righteous and sorrow to the wicked.

daughters of Judah--(Compare Psa 48:11).

10-12. Let gratitude for the blessings of providence and grace incite saints (Psa 4:3) to holy living. Spiritual blessings are in store, represented by light (Psa 27:1) and gladness.