Psalm 97

The Majestic King

1 The Lord reigns! Let the earth rejoice;

let the many coasts and islands be glad. c

2 Clouds and thick darkness surround Him;

righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne. d

3 Fire goes before Him

and burns up His foes on every side. e

4 His lightning lights up the world;

the earth sees and trembles. f

5 The mountains melt like wax

at the presence of the Lord—

at the presence of the Lord of all the earth. g

6 The heavens proclaim His righteousness; h

all the peoples see His glory. i

7 All who serve carved images,

those who boast in idols, will be put to shame. j

All the gods k must worship Him. l

8 * Zion hears and is glad,

and the towns m of Judah rejoice

because of Your judgments, Lord. n

9 For You, Lord,

are the * Most High over all the earth;

You are exalted above all the gods. o

10 You who love the Lord, hate evil! p

He protects the lives of His godly ones; q

He rescues them from the power of the wicked. r

11 Light dawns s t for the righteous,

gladness for the upright in heart. u

12 Be glad in * Yahweh, you righteous ones,

and praise His holy name. v w