1 Chronicles 16:34

O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הוֹד֤וּ

H3034

O give thanks

physically, to throw (a stone, an arrow) at or away; especially to revere or worship (with extended hands); intensively, to bemoan (by wringing the ha

לַֽיהוָה֙

H3068

unto the LORD

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

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

ט֔וֹב

H2896

for he is good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

לְעוֹלָ֖ם

H5769

endureth for ever

properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial

חַסְדּֽוֹ׃

H2617

for his mercy

kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of mercy connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about mercy, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Chronicles Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes mercy in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on mercy address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding mercy in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?