Christianity
Psalms 117The Shortest Psalm
Summary
Psalm 117 is the shortest psalm and the shortest chapter in the Bible, only two verses long. It calls all nations and all people to praise the LORD and gives two reasons: his merciful kindness toward us is great, and his truth endures forever. Though brief, it is notable for its universal reach, inviting the whole world to praise the God of Israel. It belongs to the Hallel sung at Jewish festivals, and its closing Praise ye the LORD renders the Hebrew hallelujah.
Key verse
“O Praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.”
Psalms 117:1
Themes
- Universal Praise
- Mercy
- Faithfulness
- The Nations
Text
O Praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people.
For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD.
Text: King James Version (1611/1769), public domain.
Across traditions
Christianity
Romans 15: Praise Him, All Ye GentilesPaul quotes Psalm 117:1 in Romans 15:11 among several passages showing that the Gentiles were always meant to glorify God for his mercy.
Judaism
Psalm 117 in the JPS 1917 TanakhPsalm 117 belongs to the Hallel recited on festivals and new moons, so its call for all nations to praise God is voiced regularly in Jewish worship.
Questions about Psalms 117
What is the shortest chapter in the Bible?
Psalm 117, with two verses, is the shortest chapter in the Bible. Psalm 119, with 176 verses, is the longest.
Who should praise God according to Psalm 117?
Psalm 117:1 addresses all ye nations and all ye people, not Israel alone. Its reasons, God's great mercy and enduring truth, are offered as grounds for worship by the whole world.