Old Testament
Psalms 47:9
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The princes of the peoples are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham; for the shields of the earth belong to God. He is greatly exalted.
Compare translations
The princes of the people are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted.
What Psalms 47:9 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the unity of various leaders and nations coming together, recognizing the sovereignty of God, particularly as the God of Abraham. It emphasizes that all authority and power, symbolized by 'shields,' ultimately belong to God. The mention of Abraham connects the people to a rich heritage of faith and divine promise. The phrase 'greatly exalted' underscores God's supreme status above all earthly rulers and powers, affirming His ultimate control over the world. This gathering signifies a collective acknowledgment of God's authority and the importance of worshiping Him, as He is the source of strength and protection for His people. The verse serves as a reminder that despite the diversity of nations and leaders, they are all under God's dominion, and it encourages believers to trust in His power and majesty.
How to apply Psalms 47:9 to your life
In our lives, we can find comfort in knowing that God is in control, regardless of the chaos around us. We should seek unity with others in faith, recognizing our shared heritage as children of God. This verse encourages us to worship God and trust in His protection and guidance in our daily lives.
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 Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. 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.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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 47:9
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 47:9
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 47:9 mean?
Psalms 47:9 emphasizes the gathering of leaders and nations in recognition of God's sovereignty, particularly as the God of Abraham. It highlights that all authority and power belong to God, who is exalted above all earthly rulers.
What is the significance of 'the God of Abraham' in Psalms 47:9?
The phrase 'the God of Abraham' connects the people to a rich heritage of faith and divine promise, emphasizing God's longstanding relationship with His people and His authority over all nations.
What does 'shields of the earth' refer to in Psalms 47:9?
The 'shields of the earth' symbolize authority and power, indicating that all forms of protection and strength ultimately belong to God, who is in control of all earthly matters.
How does Psalms 47:9 encourage unity among nations?
Psalms 47:9 encourages unity by showing that despite diversity, leaders and nations can come together in acknowledgment of God's authority, promoting a collective worship of Him.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.