Old Testament
Psalms 24:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Lift up your heads, O you gates; even lift them up, you everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
Compare translations
Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in.
What Psalms 24:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse is a call to the gates and doors, symbolizing the entrance to a place of worship or the presence of God, to prepare for the arrival of the King of glory. The phrase 'lift up your heads' suggests an act of reverence and readiness, indicating that something significant is about to happen. The 'King of glory' refers to God, emphasizing His majesty and power. This verse can be seen as an invitation for the people to welcome God into their midst, acknowledging His sovereignty and glory. It reflects the idea that God desires to dwell among His people, and the act of lifting up the gates signifies an openness to His presence. This imagery encourages believers to be prepared and expectant for God's intervention and presence in their lives, highlighting the importance of worship and recognition of God's greatness.
How to apply Psalms 24:9 to your life
In our daily lives, we can apply this verse by being open and receptive to God's presence. This means creating space for worship and inviting God into our hearts and homes. We should approach our spiritual practices with reverence, expecting to encounter His glory and guidance.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth

Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 24:9
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 24:9
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 24:9 mean?
Psalms 24:9 is a call for gates and doors to open in preparation for the arrival of God, referred to as the 'King of glory.' It symbolizes readiness and reverence for God's presence, emphasizing His majesty and the importance of welcoming Him into our lives.
What is the significance of 'lift up your heads' in Psalms 24:9?
The phrase 'lift up your heads' signifies an act of reverence and readiness, indicating that something important is about to happen. It encourages believers to be open and expectant for God's presence and intervention.
What is the context of Psalms 24:9?
Psalms 24:9 is part of a larger passage that celebrates God's sovereignty and glory. It invites worshippers to prepare for God's presence, highlighting the importance of acknowledging His majesty in a place of worship.
What does 'the King of glory' refer to in Psalms 24:9?
In Psalms 24:9, 'the King of glory' refers to God, emphasizing His greatness and power. This title highlights His majesty and the significance of His presence among His people.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.