1 Chronicles 16:33

Authorized King James Version

Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the LORD, because he cometh to judge the earth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָ֥ז
H227
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#2
יְרַנְּנ֖וּ
H7442
sing out
properly, to creak (or emit a stridulous sound), i.e., to shout (usually for joy)
#3
עֲצֵ֣י
H6086
Then shall the trees
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
#4
הַיָּ֑עַר
H3293
of the wood
a copse of bushes; hence, a forest; hence, honey in the comb (as hived in trees)
#5
מִלִּפְנֵ֣י
H6440
at the presence
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#6
יְהוָ֔ה
H3068
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
כִּי
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#8
בָ֖א
H935
because he cometh
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#9
לִשְׁפּ֥וֹט
H8199
to judge
to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal
#10
אֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
הָאָֽרֶץ׃
H776
the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 salvation 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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