Chapter 97

Let the Earth Rejoice

¹The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice;

let the distant shores be glad.

²Clouds and darkness surround Him;

righteousness and justice are His throne’s foundation.

³Fire goes before Him

and consumes His foes on every side.

⁴His lightning illuminates the world;

the earth sees and trembles.

⁵The mountains melt like wax

at the presence of the LORD,

before the Lord of all the earth.

⁶The heavens proclaim His righteousness;

all the peoples see His glory.

⁷All worshipers of images are put to shame—

those who boast in idols.

Worship Him, all you gods!

⁸Zion hears and rejoices,

and the towns of Judah exult

because of Your judgments, O LORD.

⁹For You, O LORD, are Most High over all the earth;

You are exalted far above all gods.

¹⁰Hate evil, O you who love the LORD!

He preserves the souls of His saints;

He delivers them from the hand of the wicked.

¹¹Light shines^a on the righteous,

gladness on the upright in heart.

¹²Rejoice in the LORD, you righteous ones,

and praise His holy name.