1 Chronicles 16:8

Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הוֹד֤וּ

H3034

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

קִרְא֣וּ

H7121

call

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

בִשְׁמ֔וֹ

H8034

upon his name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

הוֹדִ֥יעוּ

H3045

make known

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

בָֽעַמִּ֖ים

H5971

among the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

עֲלִֽילֹתָֽיו׃

H5949

his deeds

an exploit (of god), or a performance (of man, often in a bad sense); by implication, an opportunity

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Chronicles. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?