Psalms 123:1

Authorized King James Version

Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֵ֭לֶיךָ

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

נָשָׂ֣אתִי

H5375

Unto thee lift I up

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

עֵינַ֑י

H5869

mine eyes

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

הַ֝יֹּשְׁבִ֗י

H3427

O thou that dwellest

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בַּשָּׁמָֽיִם׃

H8064

in the heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

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 revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Psalms.

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?