Psalms 146:10

Authorized King James Version

The LORD shall reign for ever, even thy God, O Zion, unto all generations. Praise ye the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִמְלֹ֤ךְ

H4427

shall reign

to reign; hence (by implication) to take counsel

יְהוָ֨ה׀

H3068

The LORD

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

לְעוֹלָ֗ם

H5769

for ever

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

אֱלֹהַ֣יִךְ

H430

even thy 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

צִ֭יּוֹן

H6726

O Zion

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

וָדֹ֗ר

H1755

generations

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

וָדֹ֗ר

H1755

generations

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

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

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 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 understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?