1 Chronicles 16:25

Sing to the LORD, All the Earth · 1 Chronicles 16:23–36
Read 1 Chronicles 16

Translations

Modern
For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods.
Traditional
For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods.
Literal
For great is YHWH, and greatly to be praised; and He is to be feared above all gods.
Latin
Quia magnus Dominus, et laudabilis nimis, et horribilis super omnes deos.

Original

Hebrew
English
For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; He is to be feared above all gods.

Notes

David’s song of thanksgiving combines three psalms:

The composer adjusted the sources for this occasion. The Temple did not exist when the ark was brought to Jerusalem, so the Chronicler says strength and joy fill his dwelling (1 Chronicles 16:27) instead of His sanctuary (Psalm 96:6) and asks the worshiper to come into his presence (1 Chronicles 16:29) instead of enter His courts (Psalm 96:8). The name Abraham (Psalm 105:9) changes to Israel (1 Chronicles 16:13) to focus on the nation as the fulfillment of Abraham's promises. The hymn does not mention the judgment of the earth (Psalm 96:10, 13; compare 1 Chronicles 16:30, 33) because it was not relevant to the ark's dedication.

The transfer of the ark (1 Chronicles 16:1–3) and the event's conclusion (16:43) are reported just like in Samuel (see 2 Samuel 6:17–20). However, between these parts, the Chronicler adds details about the celebrations and the permanent worship arrangements (1 Chronicles 16:4–42). David’s psalm of celebration is the main focus of the account.

Theme notes and profiles

David

Parallels

Psalm 96:1–13

Glossary

Asaph Chronicles, Books of First and Second David Genealogy Glory Gods and Goddesses Obed-Edom

Topics

God: Glory of Music: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Praise is Due to God on Account of His Greatness Praise of David: On Bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Zion Psalms of David: Upon the Occasion of Moving the Ark of the Covenant