"Psalm 98:2 (KJV) says, "The Lord hath made known his salvation: his righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight of the heathen." This verse is a powerful declaration of God's salvation and righteousness being made known to the world, particularly to those who do not yet know Him.

The theme of salvation is a central and recurring theme throughout the Bible, and this verse from Psalm 98 highlights the revelation of God's salvation to all nations. The psalmist rejoices in the knowledge that God's salvation is not hidden or exclusive, but rather openly revealed to all people, including the gentiles or heathen. This echoes the message of inclusivity and universality in the Christian faith, emphasizing that God's salvation is for everyone, regardless of their background or nationality.

The context of Psalm 98 is one of praise and thanksgiving. The psalmist calls for a new song to be sung to the Lord, celebrating His wondrous works and salvation. The psalm describes the joyous response of all creation to God's coming to judge the earth and His faithfulness to His people. In this context, the declaration of God's salvation and righteousness being made known to the heathen is a pivotal part of the psalmist's praise and adoration of God.

The symbolism in this verse is found in the contrast between the heathen and the righteous. The heathen symbolize those who are outside the knowledge and experience of God's salvation, while the righteousness symbolizes the revealed truth and grace of God. The imagery of God openly showing His righteousness to the heathen suggests a powerful and intentional act of revelation and manifestation, emphasizing the profound impact of God's salvation reaching those who are not yet believers.

From a theological perspective, this verse also points to the fulfillment of God's promise to bring salvation to all nations through Jesus Christ. The New Testament often refers to the inclusion of the gentiles in God's plan of redemption, and Psalm 98:2 foreshadows this divine intention to extend His salvation beyond the boundaries of the Jewish people. This verse serves as a precursor to the Great Commission given by Jesus to His disciples, instructing them to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19).

In conclusion, Psalm 98:2 in the King James Version is a profound declaration of God's salvation and righteousness being made known to all people, regardless of their background or nationality. It embodies the theme of inclusivity and universality in the Christian faith, and it points to the fulfillment of God's promise to bring salvation to all nations through Jesus Christ. The context of praise and adoration in Psalm 98 further emphasizes the significance of this declaration as an integral part of the psalmist's celebration of God's wondrous works. The powerful symbolism in this verse conveys the contrast between the heathen and the righteous, illustrating the profound impact of God's salvation reaching those who are outside the knowledge and experience of His grace. Psalm 98:2 serves as a timeless reminder of the expansive and all-encompassing nature of God's love and salvation for all people."