Psalms 111:9

Authorized King James Version

He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
פְּד֤וּת׀
redemption
distinction; also deliverance
#2
שָׁ֘לַ֤ח
He sent
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#3
לְעַמּ֗וֹ
unto his people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#4
צִוָּֽה
he hath commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#5
לְעוֹלָ֥ם
for ever
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
#6
בְּרִית֑וֹ
his covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#7
קָד֖וֹשׁ
holy
sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) god (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary
#8
וְנוֹרָ֣א
and reverend
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#9
שְׁמֽוֹ׃
is his name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing redemption contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes redemption in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection