Albert Barnes Commentary Psalms 97:7

Albert Barnes Commentary

Psalms 97:7

1798–1870
Presbyterian
Albert Barnes
Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes Commentary

Psalms 97:7

1798–1870
Presbyterian
SCRIPTURE

"Let all them be put to shame that serve graven images, That boast themselves of idols: Worship him, all ye gods." — Psalms 97:7 (ASV)

Confounded be all they that serve graven images—Hebrew, “Let them be ashamed.” The idea is that they would be disappointed. They would find that these were not real gods; that their trust in them was futile; and that they had shown great folly in relying on what could not help them in their time of need. See (Job 6:20, note; Psalms 22:5, note; Psalms 25:2, note). Compare (Isaiah 20:5). What is affirmed here of the worshippers of idols will ultimately be found true for all who put their trust in anything but the true God.

That boast themselves of idols—Those who worship idols and boast of them as if they could save; or, those who take pride in their own idol-gods as if they were more powerful than those of other people. It would not be unnatural for nations that worshipped idols to take pride in them, or for one people to boast of their gods as more powerful—more worthy of trust—than those worshipped in other lands.

Worship him, all ye gods—Hebrew, אלהים 'Elohiym. The Septuagint and the Vulgate render this, “all his angels.” The original word אלהים 'Elohiym is the one commonly applied to the true God (Genesis 1:1, and often), though it can also be applied to angels or to magistrates. See (Psalms 82:1, note; Psalms 82:6, note). Regarding the general meaning of this passage and the question of its reference to the Messiah, see the notes at (Hebrews 1:6). The reference here, according to the quotation in (Hebrews 1:6), is to the angels. The original word allows for this interpretation, and the entire structure of the psalm will justify its application to the Messiah.