Psalms 147:15

Authorized King James Version

He sendeth forth his commandment upon earth: his word runneth very swiftly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַשֹּׁלֵ֣חַ
He sendeth forth
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#2
אִמְרָת֣וֹ
his commandment
an utterance
#3
אָ֑רֶץ
upon earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#4
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#5
מְ֝הֵרָ֗ה
very swiftly
properly, a hurry; hence (adverbially) promptly
#6
יָר֥וּץ
runneth
to run (for whatever reason, especially to rush)
#7
דְּבָרֽוֹ׃
his word
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

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 revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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