Psalm 97: 1-2, 6-7, 9

The responsorial psalm today’s feast comes from Psalm 97, an enthronement psalm that praises God as king over all creation.

The LORD is king; let the earth rejoice;

The psalm opens with a declaration of the Lord as King and an invitation to rejoice.

In many ancient cultures, gods competed for dominance in an unstable cosmos. In Israel’s faith, however, the LORD alone reigns: uncontested, eternal, and supreme.

let the many isles be glad.

The celebration of God’s divine kingship extends beyond the confines of Israel to “the many isles” (also translated as “many coastlands”), an image denoting the furthest parts of the world.

God’s universal reign is a cause for joy not only for Israel but for all the earth.

Justice and judgment are the foundation of his throne.

Unlike earthly rulers who often gain power through violence or political maneuvering, God’s throne is founded on justice (sedeq) and judgment (mishpāt). These are not merely ideals but the very essence of his rule.

His kingdom is unshakable because it is rooted in truth and righteousness, not force or fear.

The heavens proclaim his justice, and all peoples see his glory. All gods are prostrate before him. 

The passage ends with three affirmations of the LORD’s supremacy:

• The heavens declare his justice: Not just the skies, but also the heavenly beings testify to God’s righteousness.
• All peoples see his glory (kābôd): A visible manifestation of his holiness and majesty, traditionally associated with divine theophany. This is not reserved for Israel alone; it is revealed to all humanity.
• All other gods are prostrate before him: The Hebrew verb bôsh means to put to shame or to lose face before the other, emphasizing their total subjugation. In a world shaped by honor and shame, their humiliation underscores the LORD’s unchallenged authority.

Because you, O LORD, are the Most High over all the earth, exalted far above all gods.

The psalm leaves no room for cosmic rivalry. The LORD is not merely a god among others but God above all gods, transcendent and exalted. His kingdom is not subject to overthrow or decay.

He reigns now and forever.