Psalms 132:2

Authorized King James Version

How he sware unto the LORD, and vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#2
נִ֭שְׁבַּע
How he sware
to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)
#3
לַיהוָ֑ה
unto the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
נָ֝דַ֗ר
and vowed
to promise (pos., to do or give something to god)
#5
לַאֲבִ֥יר
H46
unto the mighty
mighty (spoken of god)
#6
יַעֲקֹֽב׃
God of Jacob
jaakob, the israelitish patriarch

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 sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection