Psalms 148:14

Authorized King James Version

He also exalteth the horn of his people, the praise of all his saints; even of the children of Israel, a people near unto him. Praise ye the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיָּ֤רֶם

H7311

He also exalteth

to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

קֶ֨רֶן׀

H7161

the horn

a horn (as projecting); by implication, a flask, cornet; by resemblance. an elephant's tooth (i.e., ivory), a corner (of the altar), a peak (of a moun

עַ֥ם

H5971

a people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

תְּהִלָּ֤ה

H8416

the praise

laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn

לְֽכָל

H3605

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

חֲסִידָ֗יו

H2623

of all his saints

properly, kind, i.e., (religiously) pious (a saint)

לִבְנֵ֣י

H1121

even of the children

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

יִ֭שְׂרָאֵל

H3478

of Israel

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

עַ֥ם

H5971

a people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

#10

קְרֹב֗וֹ

H7138

near

near (in place, kindred or time)

#11

הַֽלְלוּ

H1984

unto him 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

#12

יָֽהּ׃

H3050

ye the LORD

jah, the sacred name

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. 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 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?