A Psalm.
This designation indicates that the text is a sacred song or hymn, part of the Book of Psalms, which is a collection of religious songs, prayers, and poems. The Psalms were used in ancient Israelite worship and continue to be central in Jewish and Christian liturgies. The term "Psalm" comes from the Greek "psalmos," meaning a song sung to the accompaniment of a harp or lyre, reflecting the musical nature of these compositions.

Sing to the LORD a new song,
The call to sing a "new song" suggests a fresh expression of praise and worship, often in response to a new act of divine deliverance or revelation. This phrase is used in several other Psalms (e.g., Psalm 33:3, 96:1) and in Revelation (5:9, 14:3), indicating a theme of renewal and the ongoing work of God. The "new song" signifies a response to God's continuous and dynamic interaction with His people, inviting them to recognize and celebrate His ongoing acts of salvation.

for He has done wonders;
The "wonders" refer to God's miraculous deeds and mighty acts throughout history, such as the creation, the Exodus, and other instances of divine intervention. These acts demonstrate God's power and faithfulness to His covenant people. The term "wonders" is often associated with the miraculous events that reveal God's sovereignty and serve as a testament to His glory and might (Exodus 15:11, Psalm 77:14).

His right hand and holy arm
The "right hand" and "holy arm" are symbolic of God's power and authority. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the right hand was often associated with strength and skill. The "holy arm" emphasizes God's purity and righteousness in executing His will. These terms are anthropomorphic, attributing human characteristics to God to convey His active involvement in the world. They are also seen in Isaiah 52:10, where God's arm is bared in the sight of all nations, signifying His readiness to act on behalf of His people.

have gained Him the victory.
The victory mentioned here is a testament to God's triumph over His enemies and the deliverance of His people. This victory is not just military but also spiritual, reflecting God's ultimate authority over all creation. The concept of divine victory is prevalent throughout the Bible, culminating in the ultimate victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57). This phrase reassures believers of God's sovereign control and His ability to bring about His purposes despite opposition.

The LORD has proclaimed His salvation
This phrase emphasizes God's active role in declaring His salvation to humanity. In the Old Testament, salvation often refers to deliverance from physical enemies, but it also points to spiritual deliverance. The proclamation of salvation is seen throughout the Bible, beginning with God's promises to Abraham (Genesis 12:3) and continuing through the prophets, who foretold the coming of a Messiah (Isaiah 52:10). This salvation is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection provide the means for eternal salvation (John 3:16). The proclamation is not limited to Israel but extends to all people, indicating God's universal plan for redemption.

and revealed His righteousness
God's righteousness is His moral perfection and justice. In the context of this verse, it refers to His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and His just nature in providing salvation. The revelation of His righteousness is seen in His actions throughout history, particularly in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt (Exodus 15:1-2) and the establishment of His covenant with them. In the New Testament, God's righteousness is revealed through Jesus Christ, who embodies God's perfect nature and fulfills the law (Romans 3:21-22). This righteousness is imputed to believers through faith, highlighting the transformative power of the Gospel.

to the nations
The inclusion of "the nations" signifies the global scope of God's salvation plan. While the Old Testament often focuses on Israel as God's chosen people, there are numerous instances where God's concern for the nations is evident (Psalm 67:2, Isaiah 49:6). The New Testament further expands this concept, as Jesus commissions His disciples to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). The early church, as seen in the book of Acts, actively spreads the message of salvation beyond Jewish communities, fulfilling the prophetic vision of God's righteousness being revealed to all people. This phrase underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel and God's desire for all to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).

He has remembered His love and faithfulness to the house of Israel;
This phrase emphasizes God's covenantal relationship with Israel, highlighting His steadfast love (Hebrew: "chesed") and faithfulness (Hebrew: "emunah"). The concept of God "remembering" is not about recalling forgotten information but signifies His active intervention and fulfillment of promises. This is rooted in the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12:1-3) and the Mosaic covenant (Exodus 19:5-6), where God pledged to be Israel's God and make them a great nation. The historical context includes God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt, His guidance through the wilderness, and His establishment of them in the Promised Land. This phrase also foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ, who is seen as the true Israel and the embodiment of God's faithfulness (Matthew 5:17).

all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
This phrase points to the universal scope of God's salvation, extending beyond Israel to all nations. It reflects the prophetic vision found in Isaiah 49:6, where the Servant of the Lord is a light to the Gentiles, bringing salvation to the ends of the earth. The historical context includes the spread of the Gospel in the New Testament, as seen in Acts 1:8, where Jesus commissions His disciples to be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth." This phrase also connects to the eschatological hope in Revelation 7:9, where a multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language stands before the throne of God. Theologically, it underscores the inclusivity of God's redemptive plan, fulfilled in Christ, who is the Savior of the world (John 4:42).

Make a joyful noise to the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the act of worship through sound, highlighting the importance of expressing joy and reverence to God. In biblical times, joyful noise often included singing, shouting, and playing musical instruments, as seen in 2 Samuel 6:5 when David and the Israelites celebrated before the LORD with all kinds of instruments. The call to make a joyful noise is not limited to a specific group but is a universal invitation, reflecting the inclusivity of worship. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of worship as a communal and expressive act, as seen in Psalm 100:1-2.

All the earth
This phrase underscores the universal scope of God's sovereignty and the call for all creation to worship Him. It reflects the biblical theme of God's dominion over the entire earth, as seen in Psalm 24:1, which states, "The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it." The inclusion of "all the earth" suggests that worship is not confined to Israel but extends to all nations and peoples, foreshadowing the New Testament revelation of the gospel's reach to the Gentiles, as seen in Matthew 28:19.

Break forth—let your cry ring out
The imagery of breaking forth suggests an overwhelming, spontaneous outburst of praise, akin to a dam bursting. This expression of worship is not restrained but is an exuberant and heartfelt response to God's greatness. The idea of a cry ringing out connects to the biblical tradition of shouting in victory or celebration, as seen in Joshua 6:5 when the Israelites shouted and the walls of Jericho fell. This phrase captures the intensity and sincerity of worship that is expected from believers.

And sing praises!
Singing praises is a central element of worship throughout the Bible, reflecting both personal devotion and communal celebration. The act of singing is a way to recount God's deeds, express gratitude, and declare His attributes. In the context of the Psalms, singing is often accompanied by musical instruments, as seen in Psalm 150. This phrase also points to the prophetic vision of eternal worship in Revelation 5:9, where the redeemed sing a new song before the throne of God, highlighting the continuity of worship from the Old Testament to the eschatological future.

Sing praises to the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the act of worship directed towards the LORD, the covenant name of God, Yahweh. In the biblical context, singing praises is a common form of worship and expression of gratitude and reverence. The Psalms, often referred to as the hymnbook of ancient Israel, are filled with calls to worship God through song. This act of singing is not just a ritual but a heartfelt response to God's mighty deeds and character. Theologically, it reflects the joy and reverence due to God, who is the Creator and Sustainer of all things. The call to sing praises is a reminder of the communal and individual duty to acknowledge God's sovereignty and goodness.

with the lyre
The lyre is a stringed instrument commonly used in ancient Israelite worship. Archaeological findings and historical records indicate that the lyre was a popular instrument in the ancient Near East, used in both sacred and secular settings. In the context of the Psalms, the lyre often accompanies singing, enhancing the worship experience. The use of musical instruments in worship is a testament to the creativity and artistry that God has endowed to humanity, and it reflects the beauty and order of creation. The lyre's inclusion in worship underscores the importance of using one's talents and resources to glorify God.

in melodious song
This phrase highlights the quality and intention behind the music offered to God. A melodious song suggests harmony, skill, and intentionality in worship. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, music was an integral part of religious ceremonies and celebrations. The emphasis on melody indicates that worship should be both beautiful and heartfelt, engaging both the mind and the spirit. This aligns with the biblical principle that worship should be done "in spirit and truth" (John 4:24), reflecting sincerity and devotion.

with the harp
The harp, like the lyre, is another stringed instrument used in biblical times. It is often associated with King David, who was known for his musical skills and composed many of the Psalms. The harp's inclusion in worship signifies the rich musical tradition of Israel and the importance of music in expressing the depths of human emotion and devotion to God. Historically, the harp was used in various cultural contexts, but in the Bible, it is particularly linked to worship and prophecy. The use of the harp in this verse connects to the broader biblical theme of using all available means to honor and glorify God, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of worship in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the true King and Shepherd of His people.

With trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn
The use of trumpets and the ram's horn, or shofar, in ancient Israel was significant in both religious and cultural contexts. Trumpets were often used in worship, signaling important events, and in warfare. The shofar, made from a ram's horn, was particularly associated with sacred occasions, such as the Feast of Trumpets (Leviticus 23:24) and the Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:9). The sound of the shofar was a call to worship and a reminder of God's presence and power. In the context of Psalm 98, these instruments symbolize a call to celebrate and acknowledge God's sovereignty and victory.

shout for joy before the LORD, the King
The act of shouting for joy is a common expression of worship and celebration in the Psalms. It reflects a spontaneous and exuberant response to God's mighty acts and His kingship. The phrase "before the LORD" emphasizes the presence of God as the central focus of worship. The title "the King" underscores God's supreme authority and rule over all creation. This acknowledgment of God as King is a recurring theme in the Psalms and is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 47:7-8, which proclaims God as the King of all the earth. This phrase also points to the messianic expectation of Jesus Christ as the ultimate King, fulfilling the prophecies of a coming ruler from the line of David (Isaiah 9:6-7).

Let the sea resound
The imagery of the sea resounding is a powerful metaphor for the majesty and power of God. In biblical times, the sea often represented chaos and the unknown, yet here it is called to praise God, indicating His sovereignty over all creation. This echoes the creation narrative in Genesis, where God brings order to chaos. The sea's resounding can also be seen as a type of the nations acknowledging God's rule, as the sea often symbolizes the Gentile nations in prophetic literature (e.g., Isaiah 17:12).

and all that fills it
This phrase emphasizes the fullness of creation participating in worship. It includes marine life and all elements within the sea, highlighting the comprehensive nature of God's dominion. The inclusion of all that fills the sea points to the interconnectedness of creation and its collective purpose to glorify God. This can be connected to Romans 8:19-22, where creation eagerly awaits the revelation of the children of God, indicating a future restoration and harmony.

the world
The term "world" here refers to the earth and its inhabitants, extending the call to worship beyond the sea to the entire planet. This universal call to praise reflects the biblical theme of God's global reign and His desire for all nations to acknowledge Him. It aligns with the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, where Jesus commands His followers to make disciples of all nations, underscoring the inclusivity of God's kingdom.

and all who dwell in it
This phrase includes every living being, emphasizing the personal responsibility of individuals to recognize and worship God. It reflects the biblical teaching that all humanity is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and is therefore called to reflect His glory. The call for all inhabitants to join in praise anticipates the eschatological vision in Revelation 7:9, where a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language stands before the throne of God, worshiping Him.

Let the rivers clap their hands
This phrase uses vivid imagery to personify nature, suggesting that even the rivers participate in worship and celebration of God's majesty. In biblical literature, rivers often symbolize life and sustenance, as seen in Genesis 2:10-14 and Revelation 22:1-2. The clapping of hands is a universal gesture of joy and approval, as seen in Isaiah 55:12, where nature rejoices in God's redemption. This imagery emphasizes the idea that all creation is involved in the praise of the Creator, reflecting the harmony and order established by God.

Let the mountains sing together for joy
Mountains in the Bible often represent strength, stability, and the presence of God, as seen in Exodus 19:16-20 and Psalm 121:1-2. The idea of mountains singing together for joy suggests a unified response of creation to God's righteous rule and salvation. This phrase echoes the prophetic vision of a restored creation found in Isaiah 44:23, where the earth rejoices at God's deliverance. The mountains' song can also be seen as a type of Christ's triumphal entry, where creation acknowledges His kingship, paralleling the New Testament depiction of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem in Luke 19:37-40.

before the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the presence and authority of God. In biblical context, being "before the LORD" signifies standing in His presence, acknowledging His sovereignty and holiness. The Israelites understood the importance of approaching God with reverence, as seen in the construction of the Tabernacle and later the Temple, where God's presence was believed to dwell. This phrase also connects to the idea of worship and submission to God's will, as seen in passages like Exodus 19:17, where the people stood before the LORD at Mount Sinai.

for He comes to judge the earth
This statement reflects the anticipation of God's intervention in human history. The concept of divine judgment is a recurring theme in the Bible, where God is portrayed as the ultimate judge who will hold the world accountable. This expectation is rooted in the prophetic literature, such as Isaiah 11:4, which speaks of the Messiah judging with righteousness. The coming of the LORD to judge is also a future hope for believers, pointing to the eschatological return of Christ, as described in Revelation 19:11-16.

He will judge the world with righteousness
Righteousness in biblical terms refers to God's perfect moral standard and justice. This phrase assures that God's judgment will be fair and just, unlike human judgments that can be flawed or biased. The righteousness of God's judgment is a theme found throughout the Psalms and the Prophets, such as in Psalm 96:13 and Isaiah 11:3-5. It also foreshadows the role of Jesus Christ, who is described as the righteous judge in 2 Timothy 4:8, emphasizing His sinless nature and perfect justice.

and the peoples with equity
Equity here denotes fairness and impartiality. God's judgment is not only righteous but also equitable, meaning it is applied equally to all people, regardless of status or background. This reflects the biblical principle that God shows no partiality, as stated in Acts 10:34-35. The idea of equitable judgment is comforting to those who seek justice and is a call to live according to God's standards. It also highlights the inclusive nature of God's kingdom, where all nations and peoples are subject to His just rule, as seen in Revelation 7:9.