9 Lift up your heads, you gates; yes, lift them up, you everlasting doors, and the King of glory will come in.
*Minor differences ignored. Grouped by changes, with first version listed as example.
Lift up your heads - The repetition here is designed to give force and emphasis to what is uttered. The response in Psalm 24:5 is slightly varied from the response in Psalm 24:8; but the same general sentiment is expressed. The design is to announce in a solemn manner that the symbol of the divine presence and majesty was about to be introduced into the place of its permanent abode, and that this was an event worthy to be celebrated; that even the gates of the city should voluntarily open themselves to admit the great and glorious King who was to reign there forever.
Lift up your heads, O ye gates even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. See Gill on Psalm 24:7. This is repeated on account of the backwardness and negligence of churches, and particular believers, to open and let Christ in; as may be seen in the case of the church in Song 5:2; as well as the more to set forth the greatness and glory of Christ, about to make his entrance, and to command a proper awe and reverence of him: some think respect is had to the twofold coming of Christ; first into the second temple, and next at the last judgment; though rather the certainty of his coming, in a spiritual manner, to his church and people, is here designed.
Lift up - The same verse is repeated again, to awaken the dulness of mankind, who are so hardly brought to a serious preparation for such solemnities; and to signify the great importance of the matter, contained under these expressions.
*More commentary available at chapter level.