Psalms 119:90

Authorized King James Version

Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וָ֭דֹר
generations
properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling
#2
וָ֭דֹר
generations
properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling
#3
אֱמֽוּנָתֶ֑ךָ
Thy faithfulness
literally firmness; figuratively security; morally fidelity
#4
כּוֹנַ֥נְתָּ
thou hast established
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
#5
אֶ֝֗רֶץ
the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#6
וַֽתַּעֲמֹֽד׃
and it abideth
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of faith 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 pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, 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 faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection