The second half widens the scene: a command is issued—“Worship him”—addressed to “all you gods” (Hebrew elohim). Whatever is counted as a “god” in the world is pictured as owing allegiance to the LORD. Taken together, the verse moves from human worshipers being exposed to a universal demand for homage.

Where interpretation differs

Who are the “gods”? Some read “all you gods” as real divine beings (spiritual powers recognized by the nations) who are being summoned to acknowledge the LORD’s rule. Others read it as a poetic way of saying that the “gods” are not truly gods at all—either lifeless idols being mocked, or the human/political-religious authorities that claim divine backing.

Is “let them be put to shame” a prayer or a prediction? Some take it mainly as a request addressed to God (a call for God to act). Others take it mainly as a confident expectation: when the LORD is revealed as king, idol-servants will inevitably be shamed.

Why the disagreement exists

The Hebrew word translated “gods” (elohim) can refer to the one God, to other divine beings, or (in some contexts) to powerful authorities; Psalm poetry also speaks in heightened, scene-setting language. Likewise, the opening line uses a form that can function like a wish (“let…”) while also fitting the tone of certainty in a kingship psalm.

What this passage clearly contributes

Explicitly, the verse claims (1) shame is called down on all who serve engraved images, (2) these worshipers are characterized as people who boast in their idols, and (3) a universal summons is issued: “Worship him, all you gods.” Theological inference that naturally follows is that the LORD’s kingship is portrayed as publicly decisive: rival objects of trust and rival claimed powers are downgraded and shown to be subordinate. Psalm 97:7

boast (ham·miṯ·hal·lîm)