1 Chronicles 16:31

Authorized King James Version

Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let men say among the nations, The LORD reigneth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִשְׂמְח֤וּ

H8055

be glad

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

הַשָּׁמַ֙יִם֙

H8064

Let the heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

וְתָגֵ֣ל

H1523

rejoice

properly, to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear

הָאָ֔רֶץ

H776

and let the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וְיֹֽאמְר֥וּ

H559

and let men say

to say (used with great latitude)

בַגּוֹיִ֖ם

H1471

among the nations

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

יְהוָ֥ה

H3068

The LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מָלָֽךְ׃

H4427

reigneth

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this passage highlights kingdom of God through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Chronicles.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on kingdom of God particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from earthly theocracy through Davidic kingdom to eschatological fulfillment, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of kingdom of God, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of eschatology and the doctrine of last things?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Chronicles chapter 16 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?