The earth is the Lord’s (vs. 1-2)—Not only its physical features, but those who dwell therein (v. 1). Everything ought to belong to Him, since He created all.
Who can approach Him? (vs. 3-6)—Thus, who has the right to approach this holy, awesome God? Since His “place” is “holy,” only a certain quality of character may “ascend” His hill (v. 3). This portion of the song is similar to Psalm 15, but not as comprehensive. Three characteristics are necessary: clean hands and a pure heart, those who don’t worship false gods, and the one who guards his tongue and speaks honestly (v. 4). This is the one who “shall receive blessing from the Lord,” and be pronounced righteous (v. 5). This is the true “Jacob,” or “Israel;” not physical Israel, but the one who seeks God (v. 6).
The King of glory (vs. 7-10)—In verse 7, David address the “gates” and “everlasting doors.” The allusion is a little obscure, but since those gates allow the “King of glory” to enter, it seems plausible that this refers to a triumphal entry into the city by a victorious monarch. David repeats this refrain, for emphasis, in verse 9. Verse 8 tends to support this “victory” idea by referring to the Lord being “strong and mighty” and “mighty in battle.” Who is the King? Only Jehovah, and the ASV’s use of that name is good, because only Israel had “Jehovah” for a god. Many peoples could call their god “lord.” He is Jehovah “of hosts”—of all, as verse 1 tells us.
This whole song emphasizes the majesty of Jehovah God. He is creator of all things, He is so holy that only a certain type of people may approach Him, and He is the victorious King of Glory. David not only knew this God personally, but he understood something about the respect that he (who was a king himself) owed to that God. We should love Him, but we should also revere Him.
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