PSALM 96

Psalms 96:1-13 . The substance of this Psalm, and portions of the ninety-seventh, ninety-eighth, and hundredth, are found in 1 Chronicles 16:7-36 , which was used by David's directions in the dedication of the tabernacle on Mount Zion. The dispensation of the Messiah was typified by that event, involving, as it did, a more permanent seat of worship, and the introduction of additional and more spiritual services. Hence the language of these Psalms may be regarded as having a higher import than that pertinent to the occasion on which it was thus publicly used.

1-3. All nations are invited to unite in this most joyful praise.
new song--literally, "fresh," or new mercies ( Psalms 33:3 , 40:3 ).

2. show forth--literally, "declare joyful tidings."
salvation--illustrates His glory in its wonders of love and mercy.

4, 5. For He is not a local God, but of universal agency, while idols are nothing.

6. Honour and majesty--are His attendants, declared in His mighty works, while power and grace are specially seen in His spiritual relations to His people.

7-9. Give--or, "ascribe" ( Psalms 29:1 ) due honor to Him, by acts of appointed and solemn worship in His house.

8. offering--of thanks.

9. beauty of holiness--( Psalms 29:2 ).
fear . . . him--( Psalms 2:11 ).

10. Let all know that the government of the world is ordered in justice, and they shall enjoy firm and lasting peace (compare Psalms 72:3 Psalms 72:7 , Isaiah 9:6 Isaiah 9:7 ).

11-13. For which reason the universe is invoked to unite in joy, and even inanimate nature ( Romans 8:14-22 ) is poetically represented as capable of joining in the anthem of praise.