Psalms 67:4 Meaning and Explanation
“O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Nations will rejoice because God judges with righteousness and governs with justice.
The Context of Psalms 67:4
The basis of the nations' rejoicing: God's righteous judgment and governance over all people.
What Does Psalms 67:4 Mean?
The psalmist grounds the nations' joy in God's righteous judgment and governance. In biblical thought, true justice and righteous government bring stability and flourishing to a people. Rather than arbitrary rule or oppression, God's judgment upholds fairness and truth. This is cause for gladness—inhabitants of the earth can trust that God's rule is just and their flourishing can be secure under His governance.
The vision presented is of cosmic order: all nations acknowledging God's just rule over them. This judgment is not harsh condemnation but the establishment of right order. The Selah again signals a moment to pause and consider the weight of this truth—that ultimate justice rests with God, and His governance brings order and joy rather than fear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psalms 67:4
What does Psalms 67:4 mean?
Nations will rejoice because God judges with righteousness and governs with justice.
What is the context of Psalms 67:4?
The basis of the nations' rejoicing: God's righteous judgment and governance over all people.