Psalms 145:1

Authorized King James Version

I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֲרוֹמִמְךָ֣

H7311

I will extol

to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

אֱלוֹהַ֣י

H430

thee my 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

הַמֶּ֑לֶךְ

H4428

O king

a king

וַאֲבָרֲכָ֥ה

H1288

and I will bless

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

שִׁ֝מְךָ֗

H8034

thy name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

לְעוֹלָ֥ם

H5769

for ever

properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial

וָעֶֽד׃

H5703

and ever

properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit

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 introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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?
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?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 145 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?