Psalms 105:13

Authorized King James Version

When they went from one nation to another, from one kingdom to another people;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽ֭יִּתְהַלְּכוּ
When they went
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#2
גּ֑וֹי
from one nation
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
גּ֑וֹי
from one nation
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
#5
מִ֝מַּמְלָכָ֗ה
to another from one kingdom
dominion, i.e., (abstractly) the estate (rule) or (concretely) the country (realm)
#6
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
עַ֥ם
people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#8
אַחֵֽר׃
to another
properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

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 kingdom relates to eschatology and the ultimate purpose of God's redemptive plan 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 kingdom. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection