1 The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice;

Let the many islands and coastlands be glad.

2 Clouds and thick darkness surround Him [as at Sinai];

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne. [Ex 19:9]

3 Fire goes before Him

And burns up His adversaries on all sides.

4 His lightnings have illuminated the world;

The earth has seen and trembled.

5 The mountains 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 peoples see His glory and brilliance.

7 Let all those be [deeply] ashamed who serve carved images,

Who boast in idols.

Worship Him, all you gods! [Heb 1:6]

8 Zion heard this and was glad,

And the daughters (cities) of Judah rejoiced [in relief]

Because of Your judgments, O Lord.

9 For You are the Lord Most High over all the earth;

You are exalted far above all gods.

10 You who love the Lord, hate evil;

He protects the souls of His godly ones (believers),

He rescues them from the hand of the wicked. [Rom 8:13-17]

11 Light is sown [like seed] for the righteous and illuminates their path,

And [irrepressible] joy [is spread] for the upright in heart [who delight in His favor and protection].

12 Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous ones [those whose moral and spiritual integrity places them in right standing with God],

And praise and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.