Psalms 33:6

Authorized King James Version

By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בִּדְבַ֣ר

H1697

By the word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

יְ֭הוָה

H3068

of the LORD

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

שָׁמַ֣יִם

H8064

were the heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

נַעֲשׂ֑וּ

H6213

made

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

וּבְר֥וּחַ

H7307

of them by the breath

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

פִּ֝֗יו

H6310

of his mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

צְבָאָֽם׃

H6635

and all the host

a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci

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 divine sovereignty 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 historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 33 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?