A one-minute narration sample. Every book in the library is narrated end to end — hear the rest in the app.
The Bible · 575 of 1189
Psalms 97
1.The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof.
2.Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne.
3.A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his enemies round about.
4.His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled.
5.The hills melted like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.
6.The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.
7.Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods.
8.Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD.
9.For thou, LORD, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.
10.Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.
11.Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.
12.Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.
Asked of Guide
Why does Psalm 97 mix terrifying imagery with calls to rejoice and gladness?
Psalm 97 presents God’s kingship with fierce images — fire, lightning, hills melting — as evidence of his sovereign power and righteous judgment. The psalm moves from cosmic awe to communal response: because the LORD is “high above all the earth,” Zion and the daughters of Judah rejoice and the righteous are invited to celebrate.
This combination ties God’s holiness to protection and blessing: verse 10 promises he “preserveth the souls of his saints,” and verse 11 says “Light is sown for the righteous.” The psalm echoes themes in Job and Isaiah where divine majesty provokes both fear and hope, calling worshipers to trust and gladness.
Guide is the guide inside the Gnosis app, where every book on these shelves is free to read. Guide is the part you pay for — your guide has read all of them, and answers about the passage you’re actually on. Ask your guide your own question.