Psalms 2:11

"Now therefore be wise, you kings. Be instructed, you judges of the earth."

Key Reflection

Psalms 2:11 exhorts rulers and judges to wisdom and instruction. This call for understanding and guidance is directed at those in positions of power, emphasizing that their decisions have significant impact on the lives of their subjects. The verse reflects a cultural context where monarchs and administrators wield considerable authority, and thus bear great responsibility. By urging them to be wise and instructed, David likely aimed to ensure just governance and moral leadership, which would benefit not only the nation but also the welfare of its people.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Serve the Lord with fear -With reverence, and with deep apprehensions of the consequences of not serving and obeying him. That is, serve him in not opposing, but in promoting his purpose of establishing a kingdom under the Messiah, with the deep apprehension that if you do not do it, he will arise and crush you in his wrath. And rejoice -Prof. Alexander renders this “shout,” and supposes that it refers to the customary recognition of a present sovereign. The word used -גילgı̂yl- means properly to move in a circle, to revolve; and then to dance in a circle, to exult, to rejoice.

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