Clapping

Applauding with one's hands, as an expression of delight. Scripture portrays even the creation sharing in this delight at the majesty of its Creator.

Clapping as an expression of delight

At a coronation

2 Kings 11:12

Then Jehoiada brought out the king’s son, put the crown on him, presented him with the Testimony, and proclaimed him king. They anointed him, and the people clapped their hands and declared, “Long live the king!”

Expressing praise

Psalm 47:1

For the choirmaster. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. Clap your hands, all you peoples; shout unto God with a voice of triumph.

Expressing the delight of the creation in its Creator

Psalm 98:8 See also Isaiah 55:12

Let the rivers clap their hands, let the mountains sing together for joy

Clapping as an act of derision

Lamentations 2:15 See also Job 27:21–23, Job 34:37; Ezekiel 25:6; Nahum 3:19

All who pass by clap their hands at you in scorn. They hiss and shake their heads at the Daughter of Jerusalem: “Is this the city that was called the perfection of beauty, the joy of all the earth?”