Psalms 106:3

Authorized King James Version

Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַ֭שְׁרֵי
Blessed
happiness; only in masculine plural construction as interjection, how happy!
#2
שֹׁמְרֵ֣י
are they that keep
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#3
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#4
עֹשֵׂ֖ה
and he that doeth
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
צְדָקָ֣ה
righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
#6
בְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
עֵֽת׃
at all times
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of righteousness reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, 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 righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection