Psalm 24, also numbered as Psalm 23 in the Septuagint and Vulgate traditions, is a majestic hymn from the Book of Psalms in the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament. Attributed to King David, it likely dates to the 10th century BCE, during the early monarchy of Israel. Scholars suggest it originated as a liturgical processional psalm, possibly composed for the ceremonial transfer of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, as described in 2 Samuel 6. This event symbolised God's triumphant entry into His holy city, evoking themes of divine kingship, creation, and moral purity required for approaching the divine presence.

The psalm divides into three sections: verses 1-2 affirm God's sovereignty over the earth; verses 3-6 outline the ethical prerequisites for ascending the holy hill; and verses 7-10, the focus here, form a dramatic antiphonal dialogue. In this climactic portion, the gates (personified as ancient doors) are commanded to lift their heads to admit the "King of Glory." The repeated question "Who is this king of glory?" elicits responses exalting Yahweh as the mighty warrior and Lord of hosts (Sabaoth), underscoring His victorious power. This imagery draws from ancient Near Eastern motifs of divine conquest, where gods entered temples amid fanfare, but adapts them to monotheistic worship.

In Christian liturgy, particularly the Roman Catholic Mass, Psalm 24 holds profound significance. Its responsorial form, with the refrain "The Lord of hosts, he is the king of glory!" (from verse 8a), emphasises communal participation. It is especially poignant at the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord (Candlemas, 2 February), commemorating Jesus' presentation in the Temple (Luke 2:22-40). Here, the psalm prophetically portrays Christ as the incarnate King of Glory entering His Father's house, fulfilling the Old Testament anticipation. The gates symbolise the Temple portals opening to the Messiah, blending messianic hope with the mystery of the Incarnation. This usage highlights themes of light (echoed in the candle blessing) and divine revelation, making the psalm a bridge between Jewish heritage and Christian fulfilment. Its enduring recitation fosters awe at God's glory manifest in Jesus, inviting believers to welcome Him anew.