Let all the earth fear the Lord, and let all the inhabitants of the world be in awe of him.
יִֽירְא֣וּ מֵ֭יְהוָה כָּל־הָאָ֑רֶץ מִמֶּ֥נּוּ יָ֝ג֗וּרוּ כָּל־יֹשְׁבֵ֥י תֵבֵֽל׃
9 Church Fathers comment on this verse
May the entire earth hold the Lord in awe; may every sinner revere Him, so that he might cease from sinning. Let all the people of the world be filled with reverence in His presence. (Psalm 32:8): It is not the fears of humanity or any created being that should inspire this trembling, but a deep reverence for Him alone.
The reverence of the Lord serves as the foundation of wisdom, as stated in Proverbs 1:7, indicating that those skilled in worldly matters should be guided by this reverence. This fear, which prepares the heart for holiness, is essential, while the subsequent love that blossoms from it completes those who have been nurtured in this reverential environment. Therefore, the Psalm calls for a sense of fear to permeate all of creation. It proclaims, “Let all them that dwell in the universe be moved by Him,” suggesting that every action, whether mental or physical, should align with God’s will.
In this way, the phrase “Let them be moved by Him” signifies that no gaze should stray without God’s intent, no hand should act apart from God’s guidance, and no heart should entertain thoughts that are displeasing to Him. Let them be solely motivated by the fear of God.
May all creation stand in awe of the Lord. Let the world cease to worship false gods. Through Him, all who inhabit the cosmos will be transformed. When the inhabitants of the earth learn of Him, they will turn away from their previous ways of idolatry and willingly yield to their Maker.
In addressing the heavens and the unseen forces, as well as the waters, the Prophet then centers his attention on the earth and its inhabitants, instructing them to recognize that they are created by God, and urging them to stand in awe and submission to their Maker. Simmachus opted for the phrase "let them reverence" instead of "let them be moved," while Aquila chose "let them depart in fear," indicating that the reverence of creation would occur at a future time. This sense of fear was not present when the Prophet spoke these words; rather, it came to pass following the Incarnation, Passion, and Resurrection of our Lord Christ.
Let all the earth revere the Lord. Through the term "earth," David often refers to humanity, as he does here, whether to highlight that they were formed from the dust or that they reside upon it. By demonstrating the Creator's might through the marvels of creation, this king-prophet urges those fashioned from the earth to revere and honor such a Creator, the one true God. Alternatively, "earth" may refer to those who possess wisdom about worldly matters, as St. Basil notes. This interpretation is supported by several passages in sacred Scripture where "earth" conveys a similar meaning. Thus, he instructs these worldly-wise individuals to stand in awe of God and to adhere to His commandments.
Blessed Augustine elaborates on this by saying: Do not let your fear rest on anything other than Him (God). Are wild creatures causing chaos? Fear God. Is a person opposing you? Fear God. Is the adversary waging war against you? Fear God. All of creation exists under the authority of the one whom David commands us to reverence. This is also why Solomon stated: Fear none but Him. From Him, let every being in existence be stirred. He suggests that all humanity should tremble and marvel before this Lord, the Creator of all, for God is both great and fearsome. St. Basil interpreted this differently: he understood "from Him" to mean according to His will and that they should be shaken, which in the original Greek connotes movement. This implies that the actions of all people, both in thought and in body, should align with God and unite under His reverence. I also see this relation in the context of Christ. Through the teachings and miracles of Christ, all people were stirred; some were drawn to faith and the knowledge of God, while others were bewildered by the proclamation of His Gospel. Simmachus, instead of "let them be moved," used the phrase "let them honor," while Aquila chose "let them fear," alluding to the future reverence of the entire earth, as Theodoret clarifies. For at the time of these words, humanity had not yet attained such awe and fear, but this transformed attitude emerged following the humanity, suffering, and resurrection of our Lord Christ.
The trembling of humanity The prophet wisely calls for everyone to tremble before the Lord, as everything orchestrated by His will serves a purpose. While the earlier psalm addressed all creation broadly, it now focuses specifically on mankind. Although all things are under God's authority, humanity, in particular, is most greatly affected, for it is clearly ensnared by sin, having tainted its essence through the vices that have infiltrated it.
Drawing from the preceding discussion on the all-encompassing power and might of God, the Prophet urges individuals to revere God and adhere strictly to His commandments.
Psalm This psalm in its original Hebrew lacks an inscription, leading to the conclusion that it is associated with Psalm 31. It reflects an Old Testament interpretation of the Lord's reassurance: do not be afraid, little flock (Lk. 12:32). The context for its creation may have been a miraculous triumph achieved by God's small remnant over powerful pagan nations. In light of God's extraordinary assistance, the psalmist invites the faithful of Israel—those who are righteous and just—to raise their voices in joyful and triumphant praise (1Ezdr. 3:11) and to sing a new and remarkable song (vv. 1-3). In this victory granted, the Lord has magnificently revealed Himself as loving truth (v.
4 in faithful adherence to His promises), merciful (toward Israel), and just (in judgement against the Gentiles; v. 5). He is Almighty God, as evidenced by the creation of the world (vv. 6, 7, 9). The power of the stars and the heavenly hosts are managed by Him, much like a man directs the waves of the sea; the depths serve as treasure stores; thus, all the earth should revere Him (v. 8), including the Gentiles, whose threatening schemes against Israel the Almighty will thwart (v. 10). He will nullify the plans of rulers—not exclusively Jewish—while His gracious intentions toward Israel remain eternally steadfast (v. 11). Can we not consider blessed the nation whom the Almighty has chosen as His own inheritance, shielding them with His mighty hand (v. 12)? The Protector of Israel is not only all-powerful but also all-knowing (vv. 13-14). He inhabits a prepared and orderly dwelling—addressing each individual separately—as He who has formed the hearts of humanity and comprehends all their thoughts and actions (v. 15). Consequently, He can render them ineffective against His chosen people, ensuring that no force can prevail against Israel (vv. 16-17). The Lord’s watchful gaze remains upon him (v. 18), diverting all peril from him (v. 19). Thus, Israel places its trust in the Lord, confident in His unwavering aid, rejoicing in this assurance; may His mercy align with Israel’s hope, corresponding in measure!
Let all humanity, every wayward individual, recognize the inevitable consequences of God’s judgment for their transgressions and be compelled to seek repentance with a contrite spirit. The righteous are called to pursue their salvation with reverence (Philippians 2:12). Those who believe themselves secure should remain vigilant lest they stumble (1 Corinthians 10:12). Consider the examples of Sodom and Gomorrah and the great Flood, as well as the invasions and civil strife that have arisen as a consequence of sin, all leading to the approaching Last Judgement—therefore, strive to live virtuously.
Passages read together with this verse.
THEOSIS