Psalms 147:7
Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God:
Original Language Analysis
עֱנ֣וּ
Sing
H6030
עֱנ֣וּ
Sing
Strong's:
H6030
Word #:
1 of 6
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
לַיהוָ֣ה
unto the LORD
H3068
לַיהוָ֣ה
unto the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 6
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
בְּתוֹדָ֑ה
with thanksgiving
H8426
בְּתוֹדָ֑ה
with thanksgiving
Strong's:
H8426
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, an extension of the hand, i.e., (by implication) avowal, or (usually) adoration; specifically, a choir of worshippers
זַמְּר֖וּ
sing praise
H2167
זַמְּר֖וּ
sing praise
Strong's:
H2167
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e., play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in so
Historical Context
Psalm 147 is likely post-exilic (after 539 BC), celebrating Jerusalem's restoration after Babylonian captivity. The harp (kinnor) was central to Temple worship from David's time (1 Chronicles 25), and Psalm 137:2 poignantly records how exiles hung their harps on Babylon's willows, unable to sing. This verse marks the resumption of joyful worship in the rebuilt Temple.
Questions for Reflection
- How does thanksgiving function as a spiritual discipline that precedes asking God for things?
- What role does corporate, musical worship play in reinforcing your personal relationship with God?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving (שִׁירוּ לַיהוָה בְּתוֹדָה)—The imperative shiru commands corporate worship through song, while todah refers to sacrificial thanksgiving, the offering of gratitude for answered prayer. This isn't mere emotional expression but covenantal response to God's faithfulness catalogued in the preceding verses (rebuilding Jerusalem, healing the brokenhearted, numbering the stars).
Sing praise upon the harp (זַמְּרוּ לֵאלֹהֵינוּ בְכִנּוֹר)—Zameru means to make music with instrumental accompaniment, specifically the kinnor (lyre/harp), David's instrument. The dual call to vocal and instrumental worship reflects Psalm 33:2-3's pattern: thanksgiving precedes petition, worship precedes request. Notice the progression: YHWH (covenant name) to Elohenu (our God)—personal relationship drives public praise.