Shiggaion is a Hebrew term for a lyrical poem composed with great emotion. It is a song of passionate imagination accompanied by music with rapid changes of rhythm. In its plural form the designation is shigionoth. There is a group of Psalms (93, 95-100) that seem to burst with the theme of God’s sovereignty and authoritative revelation. When reading them they seem to demand a choir of nations and an orchestra from the rest of creation. It might therefore be said, “The Lord Reigns” to shigionoth! In all of these psalms/songs we find the following concepts:
- The LORD reigns! He is the Great King, the Rock of Salvation, and the Most High God. He reveals His righteousness, makes His salvation known, and His faithfulness endures to all generations.
- The LORD created the cosmos! He formed the sea, the dry lands, the heavens, and all that is in them. Let the fields be jubilant, the trees sing, the mountains melt, the sea roar, and the lightening light up the sky.
- The LORD is worthy of worship! Enter His gates with singing and His courts with praise. Come before Him with thanksgiving. Kneel before your Maker!
- We may enjoy the Lord’s presence! This is Zion, the sanctuary of our exuberant God! Holiness adorns Him. Splendor and majesty are before Him. Strength and beauty are His immediate, intimate, and infinite periphery.
- We must proclaim the LORD’s salvation! Say among the nations, “The LORD reigns!” Speak of His marvelous deeds and His glory day after day. He guards the lives of His faithful ones and joy is in the hearts of those He makes righteous.
- The LORD is coming to make all things right! Those whose hearts go astray will never experience or enjoy His rest. He will judge the earth with truth, righteousness, and equity.