Biblical Reference:
The phrase "Clap your hands, all you peoples" is found in Psalm 47:1. The Berean Standard Bible translates this verse as: "Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph."

Context and Meaning:
Psalm 47 is a psalm of the sons of Korah, a group of Levitical singers and musicians. This psalm is a call to worship and a celebration of God's sovereign rule over all the earth. The act of clapping hands is a universal gesture of joy, approval, and celebration. In the context of this psalm, it signifies a communal expression of praise and acknowledgment of God's majesty and authority.

Theological Significance:
The call to "clap your hands" is an invitation to all nations and peoples to recognize and rejoice in the kingship of God. This reflects the biblical theme of God's universal reign and the anticipation of His ultimate victory over all creation. The psalm emphasizes God's role as the King of all the earth, a theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures, pointing to the eschatological hope of God's kingdom being fully realized.

Liturgical Use:
Throughout history, Psalm 47 has been used in various liturgical settings, particularly in Jewish and Christian worship. It is often associated with the celebration of God's kingship and is used in contexts that emphasize divine sovereignty and victory. The psalm is traditionally recited on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, symbolizing the coronation of God as King.

Cultural and Historical Background:
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, clapping was a common expression of joy and acclamation, often used in royal ceremonies and public celebrations. The psalm's call for all peoples to clap their hands underscores the inclusivity of God's reign, transcending national and ethnic boundaries. This reflects the biblical vision of a world united in worship of the one true God.

Application for Believers:
For contemporary believers, the exhortation to "clap your hands" serves as a reminder of the joy and enthusiasm that should characterize worship. It encourages Christians to express their faith openly and to celebrate God's presence and power in their lives. The psalm invites believers to join in the global chorus of praise, recognizing that God's sovereignty extends over all nations and peoples.

Related Scriptures:
· Psalm 98:4: "Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth; break forth—let your cry ring out and sing praises!"
· Isaiah 55:12: "You will indeed go out with joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands."
· Revelation 19:6: "Then I heard a sound like the roar of a great multitude, like the rushing of many waters, and like a mighty rumbling of thunder, crying out: 'Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns.'"

These passages collectively highlight the theme of joyful worship and the acknowledgment of God's reign, encouraging believers to participate in the universal celebration of His majesty.