Psalms 1:2

But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

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

אִ֥ם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

וּֽבְתוֹרָת֥וֹ

H8451

and in his law

a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

יְהוָ֗ה

H3068

of the LORD

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

חֶ֫פְצ֥וֹ

H2656

But his delight

pleasure; hence (abstractly) desire; concretely, a valuable thing; hence (by extension) a matter (as something in mind)

וּֽבְתוֹרָת֥וֹ

H8451

and in his law

a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

יֶהְגֶּ֗ה

H1897

doth he meditate

to murmur (in pleasure or anger); by implication, to ponder

יוֹמָ֥ם

H3119

day

daily

וָלָֽיְלָה׃

H3915

and night

properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God 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 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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?