Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength!
English Standard Version (ESV)
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1 Chronicles 16:28
What does 1 Chronicles 16:28 mean?
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1 Chronicles 16:28
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Notice how the command to "ascribe" isn't just for Israel, but for all the "families of the peoples." This passage is a powerful reminder that God's glory and strength are not exclusive; they are meant to be recognized and celebrated by everyone, everywhere. It calls us to see God's majesty as a truth for the whole world.
Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength!
English Standard Version (ESV)
King David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, a monumental moment of celebration. He's commissioned hymns and songs to be sung, and this verse is part of that joyful, communal worship. It's an invitation for all people, not just Israel, to recognize God's power and majesty as the Ark's arrival signifies His presence among them.
The verse calls out 'families of the peoples.' Who is included in this invitation, and why is that so significant?
God's Worthy of Universal Acclaim
The phrase 'families of the peoples' isn't just a casual mention. It emphasizes that God's worthiness of praise extends beyond any single nation or ethnic group. It's a call for all humanity, across all cultures and backgrounds, to recognize and declare God's greatness.
This isn't just a nice thought; it's a theological anchor. It points forward to a time when the Good News would spread to every corner of the earth, showing that God's plan is for everyone.
The verse specifically directs us to ascribe 'glory and strength' to God. What do these qualities reveal about Him?
The Majestic and the Mighty
Glory speaks to God's inherent worth, His majesty, His splendor, and His unique honor. It's about who God is in His divine essence. It's the radiance that surrounds Him and the recognition of His supreme value.
Strength points to God's power, His might, and His ability to act. It's the force behind His creation and His plans. It's the assurance that He is capable of accomplishing all that He intends.
When we ascribe both glory and strength, we're acknowledging God's magnificent being His incredible power. We're not just admiring His beauty; we're trusting in His might.
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Understand the original words
yahab · Hebrew Verb
To attribute, assign, or give credit to someone; in a biblical context, it implies publicly acknowledging God's rightful character and deeds.
kabod · Hebrew Noun
The heavy, weighty, or brilliant manifestation of God’s character, presence, and reputation; the visible display of His infinite worth.
This Psalm echoes the call to 'ascribe to the LORD' the glory due his name, expanding on the concept of His powerful and majestic nature.
Psalm 96:7-9This passage directly parallels the call to attribute glory and strength to the Lord, urging all the peoples of the earth to worship Him.
Isaiah 42:8The LORD declares His unique glory and will not give it to another, reinforcing the idea that all glory and strength belong to Him alone.
Revelation 4:10-11The elders in Revelation fall down before God, acknowledging that He created all things and is worthy of receiving glory, honor, and power.
Notice how the command to "ascribe" isn't just for Israel, but for all the "families of the peoples." This passage is a powerful reminder that God's glory and strength are not exclusive; they are meant to be recognized and celebrated by everyone, everywhere. It calls us to see God's majesty as a truth for the whole world.
King David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, a monumental moment of celebration. He's commissioned hymns and songs to be sung, and this verse is part of that joyful, communal worship. It's an invitation for all people, not just Israel, to recognize God's power and majesty as the Ark's arrival signifies His presence among them.
King David has just brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, a monumental moment of celebration. He's commissioned hymns and songs to be sung, and this verse is part of that joyful, communal worship. It's an invitation for all people, not just Israel, to recognize God's power and majesty as the Ark's arrival signifies His presence among them.
"Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength!" — Notice how the command to "ascribe" isn't just for Israel, but for all the "families of the peoples." This passage is a powerful reminder that God's glory and strength are not exclusive; they are m…
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Last reviewed October 2026