Psalms 111:3

Authorized King James Version

His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הוֹד
is honourable
grandeur (i.e., an imposing form and appearance)
#2
וְהָדָ֥ר
and glorious
magnificence, i.e., ornament or splendor
#3
פָּֽעֳל֑וֹ
His work
an act or work (concretely)
#4
וְ֝צִדְקָת֗וֹ
and his righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
#5
עֹמֶ֥דֶת
endureth
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#6
לָעַֽד׃
for ever
properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit

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