Bible Commentaries
Psalms 96

Introduction

PSALM 96

:-. The substance of this Psalm, and portions of the ninety-seventh, ninety-eighth, and hundredth, are found in :-, which was used by David's directions in the dedication of the tabernacle on Mount Zion. The dispensation of the Messiah was typified by that event, involving, as it did, a more permanent seat of worship, and the introduction of additional and more spiritual services. Hence the language of these Psalms may be regarded as having a higher import than that pertinent to the occasion on which it was thus publicly used.

Verse 1

1-3. All nations are invited to unite in this most joyful praise.

new song—literally, "fresh," or new mercies (Psalms 33:3; Psalms 40:3).

Verse 2

2. show forth—literally, "declare joyful tidings."

salvation—illustrates His glory in its wonders of love and mercy.

Verse 3

1-3. All nations are invited to unite in this most joyful praise.

new song—literally, "fresh," or new mercies (Psalms 33:3; Psalms 40:3).

Verse 4

4, 5. For He is not a local God, but of universal agency, while idols are nothing.

Verse 6

6. Honour and majesty—are His attendants, declared in His mighty works, while power and grace are specially seen in His spiritual relations to His people.

Verse 7

7-9. Give—or, "ascribe" (Psalms 29:1) due honor to Him, by acts of appointed and solemn worship in His house.

Verse 8

8. offering—of thanks.

Verse 9

9. beauty of holiness— ( :-).

fear . . . him— ( :-).

Verse 10

10. Let all know that the government of the world is ordered in justice, and they shall enjoy firm and lasting peace (compare Psalms 72:3; Psalms 72:7; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 9:7).

Verse 11

11-13. For which reason the universe is invoked to unite in joy, and even inanimate nature ( :-) is poetically represented as capable of joining in the anthem of praise.