and the earth rejoice
The earth's rejoicing signifies the harmony and peace that will be restored under God's reign. This echoes the Genesis account where God saw that creation was "very good" (Genesis 1:31). The earth's joy is a response to God's righteous rule and the establishment of His kingdom, as prophesied in Isaiah 65:17-18, where a new heaven and a new earth are promised. This rejoicing is not just for humanity but for all creation, indicating a holistic redemption.

let the sea resound
The sea, often representing chaos and danger in ancient literature, is here called to resound with praise. This transformation from chaos to harmony reflects God's sovereignty over all creation, including the forces of nature. In biblical typology, the calming of the sea by Jesus (Mark 4:39) demonstrates His authority over creation, prefiguring the ultimate peace He will bring. The sea's resounding is a metaphor for the overwhelming praise that will fill the earth.

and all that fills it
This phrase encompasses all creatures and elements within the sea, highlighting the inclusivity of creation's praise. It reflects the biblical view that every part of creation has a role in glorifying God (Psalm 148:7-10). The imagery of the sea and its fullness praising God can be seen as a foretaste of the eschatological vision in Revelation 5:13, where every creature in heaven, on earth, and under the earth joins in worship. This universal praise underscores the comprehensive scope of God's redemptive plan.

Psalm 96 opens with a call to sing a new song, and verse 11 begins by extending that praise beyond people to the very heavens.

• The heavens—sun, moon, stars, and unseen angelic realms—are invited to “be glad,” signaling that all creation recognizes God’s reign (Psalm 19:1).

• This gladness is not abstract; it anticipates the LORD’s coming judgment and righteous rule (Isaiah 44:23; Revelation 5:13).

• The phrase affirms that worship is universal: everything above us is already declaring His glory, urging us to join that cosmic celebration.

Next, the psalmist turns from the sky to the ground beneath our feet.

• The earth’s rejoicing echoes passages like Psalm 97:1—“The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice”—underscoring that God’s sovereignty is comprehensive.

• Earthly rejoicing involves:

– Human voices lifted in praise (Psalm 66:1).

– Visible reminders such as fertile fields and majestic mountains displaying His goodness (Psalm 65:9–13).

• By tying heaven’s gladness to earth’s joy, Scripture presents a unified chorus proclaiming the Creator’s character and coming kingdom.

The psalmist dives deeper, calling the sea itself to “resound.”

• “Resound” suggests thunderous, rolling praise—waves crashing like cymbals before their Maker (Psalm 98:7).

• In Scripture, the sea often symbolizes chaos (Isaiah 17:12) yet also showcases God’s power to bring order (Mark 4:39). Its roaring praise therefore testifies that even the most untamed realms submit to Him.

• Cross references: Job 38:8–11 where God sets boundaries for the sea; Revelation 15:2 where a “sea of glass” stands before His throne—both scenes magnify His authority.

The final phrase gathers every creature and element within the oceans into the song.

• Creatures great and small—whales, fish, coral, and microscopic life—are included (Psalm 104:24–26).

• This anticipates the day when “every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea” will praise the Lamb (Revelation 5:13).

• By singling out all that fills the sea, the verse dismisses any notion that parts of creation are silent or excluded; the whole world vibrates with worship.

Psalm 96:11 paints a sweeping picture of universal praise: the heights of heaven, the breadth of earth, the depths of the sea, and every creature within them harmonize in glad adoration of the LORD. The verse assures us that God’s reign is absolute, His coming judgment is righteous, and every corner of creation—visible and invisible—will respond with joyful acclaim.