Psalms
Summary
Psalm 24 is a majestic hymn celebrating God as the Creator and the King of Glory entering His sanctuary. It begins with the foundational truth: "The earth is the LORD’S and everything in it." The central question asks who is worthy to stand in God's "holy place," with the answer focusing on those with "clean hands and a pure heart." The psalm concludes with a triumphant call for the ancient gates of Zion to "lift up your heads" so that the King of Glory: the LORD "strong and mighty in battle": may enter. It is a powerful liturgical piece likely used during the temple processional.
The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it;
for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters.
Who may ascend the mountain of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place?
The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god.
They will receive blessing from the LORD and vindication from God their Saviour.
Such is the generation of those who seek him, who seek your face, O God of Jacob. Selah.
Lift up your heads, you gates; be lifted up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in.
Who is this King of glory? the LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.
Lift up your heads, you gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in.
Who is he, this King of glory? the LORD Almighty, he is the King of glory. Selah.