Divine Ownership and Human Stewardship

Psalm 24:1 offers a profound theological affirmation of God's ownership of the earth and everything within it. This article investigates the verse’s historical, literary, and theological dimensions, situating it within the context of ancient Israelite worship while also highlighting its enduring significance for contemporary faith and ethics. By employing a multidisciplinary methodology; including historical-critical analysis, literary and canonical exegesis, and systematic theological reflection, the study uncovers the verse’s role in articulating divine sovereignty and its implications for human responsibility. Intertextual connections with other biblical texts, such as Genesis, Leviticus, and Romans, further illuminate a consistent theological motif of God’s dominion and human stewardship. Particular emphasis is placed on how Psalm 24:1 challenges modern readers to reconsider their approach to environmental ethics and economic justice. The study argues that recognizing God’s ownership reorients creation care and social justice as core expressions of faithful worship and discipleship, rather than as secondary or optional concerns.