The God of the Thunderstorm and the Proclamation of His Righteousness

This psalm of Yahweh’s kingship picks up where Psalm 96 leaves off: “let the earth be glad” (cf. 96:11). After this opening invitation, we hear of a thunderstorm demonstrating Yahweh’s supremacy and righteousness (vv. 2–6). We hear of the responses of idol worshipers and of Zion, along with a summary statement of Yahweh’s supremacy (vv. 7–9). The closing section spells out the implications of the above: Yahweh’s people must shun evil and then they will be granted protection, light, and joy (vv. 10–12).

97:1  In response to the opening acclamation, The LORD reigns, there is to be worldwide praise.

97:2–6  Yahweh’s kingship is here exhibited, not by a static deity sitting on a throne, but by the dynamic appearance (i.e., a th…