Psalms 97

1 Jehovah reigneth: let the earth be glad, let the many isles rejoice.

The Lord reigns! Let the earth be glad, and distant lands be full of joy!

2 Clouds and darkness are round about him; righteousness and judgment are the foundation of his throne.

He is surrounded by clouds and thick darkness; his throne is founded on justice and right.

3 A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his adversaries round about.

Flames proceed him, burning up his enemies on every side.

4 His lightnings lightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled.

His flashes of lightning light up the world; the earth watches and trembles.

5 The mountains melted like wax at the presence of Jehovah, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.

The mountains melt like wax in the presence of the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth.

6 The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the peoples see his glory.

The heavens proclaim his goodness; everyone sees his glory.

7 Ashamed be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols. Worship him, all ye gods.

All those who worship idols are humiliated, those who are proud of their idols—for all “gods” bow down before him.

8 Zion heard, and rejoiced; and the daughters of Judah were glad, because of thy judgments, O Jehovah.

Jerusalem hears this and celebrates; all the towns of Judah are happy because of your judgments, Lord.

9 For thou, Jehovah, art the Most High above all the earth; thou art exalted exceedingly above all gods.

For you, Lord, are the highest of all, ruling over the whole earth; your position is far above any other god.

10 Ye that love Jehovah, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints, he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.

You who love the Lord, hate evil! He protects the lives of those who are faithful to him, and saves them from the power of wicked people.

11 Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.

Light shines on those who do good, giving joy to those who live right.

12 Rejoice in Jehovah, ye righteous; and give thanks in remembrance of his holiness.

Be happy in the Lord, you who do right, and thank him for his holy nature!