Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 47

As the ruler of all nations, God deserves praise.

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.

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).

The Lord gave Israel victory, especially under David (see Psalm 18:40–50). God's powerful acts of redemption show his love for Israel.

• 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).

The psalmist describes the Lord as returning to heaven, having accomplished his victories. For a description of his descent, see Psalm 18:9–16.

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).

People from all over the world (see Psalm 96:1–3) will worship God.