Psalms 122:8

For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְ֭מַעַן

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

אַחַ֣י

H251

For my brethren

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

וְרֵעָ֑י

H7453

and companions

an associate (more or less close)

אֲדַבְּרָה

H1696

sakes I will now say

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

נָּ֖א

H4994

'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction

שָׁל֣וֹם

H7965

Peace

safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace

בָּֽךְ׃

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of peace 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 peace in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 122 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?