Isaiah 12:5
Sing unto the LORD; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth.
Original Language Analysis
זַמְּר֣וּ
Sing
H2167
זַמְּר֣וּ
Sing
Strong's:
H2167
Word #:
1 of 9
properly, to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e., play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in so
יְהוָ֔ה
unto the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֔ה
unto the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 9
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
כִּ֥י
H3588
כִּ֥י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
3 of 9
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
עָשָׂ֑ה
for he hath done
H6213
עָשָׂ֑ה
for he hath done
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
5 of 9
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
מיּדַ֥עַת
this is known
H3045
מיּדַ֥עַת
this is known
Strong's:
H3045
Word #:
6 of 9
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
Cross References
Psalms 98:1O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.Exodus 15:1Then sang Moses and the children of Israel this song unto the LORD, and spake, saying, I will sing unto the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.Isaiah 40:9O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God!Psalms 72:19And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.Exodus 15:21And Miriam answered them, Sing ye to the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.Habakkuk 2:14For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
Historical Context
Anticipates global spread of knowledge of Yahweh. Partially fulfilled when Israel testified to surrounding nations and supremely fulfilled in gospel's worldwide spread. Paul's missionary vision echoed this—declaring God's excellent things to all nations. The continuing missionary movement fulfills this mandate. Every translation of Scripture, every gospel presentation makes God's excellent things 'known in all the earth.'
Questions for Reflection
- What 'excellent things' has God done that compel you to praise and proclaim Him?
- How does our local worship connect to the global mission of making God known in all earth?
- What role do you play in making God's excellent deeds known to the nations?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Specific reason for praise: 'he hath done excellent things.' The command 'this is known in all the earth' calls for universal proclamation. God's 'excellent things' include creation, redemption, providence—all His mighty works. The imperative suggests urgency and comprehensiveness—all earth should know God's deeds. This missionary emphasis runs throughout Isaiah (42:10-12; 45:22; 49:6). Salvation experienced compels worldwide witness. God's glory demands global recognition.