Clapping hands is often part of worship, but what does Scripture say about it? Today, we’ll explore how this expression of joy is used in the Bible.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About City Upon A Hill
What Does The Bible Say About Clapping Hands
Psalm 47:1
“Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy.”
This verse encourages everyone, regardless of their nationality, to clap their hands and shout with joy to God. It symbolizes the exuberant praise and celebration of God’s goodness and faithfulness.
Psalm 98:8
“Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy;
Here, nature itself is depicted as joining in praise to God. The image of rivers clapping their hands and mountains singing together emphasizes the magnitude of God’s glory and the all-encompassing nature of His praise.
Isaiah 55:12
“You will go out in 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.”
This verse paints a beautiful picture of creation rejoicing in response to the blessings and favor of God. The imagery of the trees clapping their hands symbolizes the profound joy and harmony that comes from being in alignment with God’s will.
2 Kings 11:12
“And Jehoiada brought out the king’s son and put the crown on him; he presented him with a copy of the covenant and proclaimed him king. They anointed him, and the people clapped their hands and shouted, ‘Long live the king!'”
In this historical account, the clapping of hands is a gesture of joyful celebration for the anointed king. It represents the people’s affirmation and support for their newly crowned leader.
Lamentations 2:15
“All who pass your way clap their hands at you; they scoff and shake their heads at Daughter Jerusalem: ‘Is this the city that was called the perfection of beauty, the joy of the whole earth?'”
Here, clapping hands takes a negative connotation, symbolizing mockery and scorn towards Jerusalem. The city’s downfall elicits disbelief and derision from those who witness its destruction.
2 Chronicles 30:21
“The Israelites who were present in Jerusalem celebrated the Festival of Unleavened Bread for seven days with great rejoicing, while the Levites and priests praised the Lord every day with instruments powerful enough to be heard.”
This verse describes a joyous celebration where clapping hands is likely to have been part of the enthusiastic worship as the Israelites praised the Lord. The clapping of hands enhances the festive atmosphere as they express their gratitude and adoration to God.
Job 27:23
“It claps its hands at him and scoffs at him as it moves its head about.”
In this metaphorical context, the clapping of hands represents an object of ridicule. It signifies contempt and mockery towards someone, emphasizing the arrogance and disdain of the mocker.
2 Chronicles 29:28
“The whole assembly bowed in worship, while the musicians played and the trumpets sounded. All this continued until the sacrifice of the burnt offering was completed.”
Although not explicitly mentioned, it is likely that clapping hands were part of the worship scene described in this verse. As the assembly bowed in worship and the musicians played, clapping hands may have been a way for the people to express their reverence and appreciation for God.
Psalm 98:4
“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music.”
While this verse does not specifically mention clapping hands, it encourages the earth and all its inhabitants to burst into song and joyful praise. Clapping hands can be seen as an expression of this exuberant worship, contributing to the atmosphere of celebration and adulation.
Ezekiel 25:6
“For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Because you have clapped your hands and stamped your feet, rejoicing with all the malice of your heart against the land of Israel,”
Here, the act of clapping hands is associated with wickedness and malicious intent. It represents a gesture of pleasure or satisfaction in the misfortune or downfall of the land of Israel.