Psalms 122:9

Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek thy good.

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

בֵּית

H1004

Because of the house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

יְהוָ֣ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֱלֹהֵ֑ינוּ

H430

our God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

אֲבַקְשָׁ֖ה

H1245

I will seek

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

ט֣וֹב

H2896

thy good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

לָֽךְ׃

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?