Psalms 135:21

Blessed be the LORD out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בָּ֘ר֤וּךְ

H1288

Blessed

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

יְהוָ֨ה׀

H3068

be the LORD

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

מִצִּיּ֗וֹן

H6726

out of Zion

tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem

שֹׁ֘כֵ֤ן

H7931

which dwelleth

to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)

יְֽרוּשָׁלִָ֗ם

H3389

at Jerusalem

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

הַֽלְלוּ

H1984

Praise

to be clear (orig. of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence, to make a show, to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causativ

יָֽהּ׃

H3050

ye the LORD

jah, the sacred name

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

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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?
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?