Psalms 108:3

Authorized King James Version

I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אוֹדְךָ֖
I will praise
physically, to throw (a stone, an arrow) at or away; especially to revere or worship (with extended hands); intensively, to bemoan (by wringing the ha
#2
בָעַמִּ֥ים׀
among the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#3
יְהוָ֑ה
thee O LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
וַ֝אֲזַמֶּרְךָ֗
and I will sing praises
properly, to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e., play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in so
#5
בַּלְאֻמִּֽים׃
unto thee among the nations
a community

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection