Psalms 147:20

Authorized King James Version

He hath not dealt so with any nation: and as for his judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹ֘א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

עָ֤שָׂה

H6213

He hath not dealt

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

כֵ֨ן׀

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

לְכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

גּ֗וֹי

H1471

so with any nation

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

וּמִשְׁפָּטִ֥ים

H4941

and as for his judgments

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

בַּל

H1077

properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest

יְדָע֗וּם

H3045

they have not known

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

הַֽלְלוּ

H1984

them 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

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יָֽהּ׃

H3050

ye the LORD

jah, the sacred name

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

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?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 147 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?