Psalms 147:18

Authorized King James Version

He sendeth out his word, and melteth them: he causeth his wind to blow, and the waters flow.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִשְׁלַ֣ח
He sendeth out
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#2
דְּבָר֣וֹ
his word
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#3
וְיַמְסֵ֑ם
and melteth
to dissolve
#4
יַשֵּׁ֥ב
to blow
to blow; by implication, to disperse
#5
ר֝וּח֗וֹ
them he causeth his wind
wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the
#6
יִזְּלוּ
flow
to drip, or shed by trickling
#7
מָֽיִם׃
and the waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen

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 revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection