Psalms 149:2

Authorized King James Version

Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִשְׂמַ֣ח

H8055

rejoice

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל

H3478

Let Israel

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

בְּעֹשָׂ֑יו

H6213

in him that made

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

בְּנֵֽי

H1121

him let 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

צִ֝יּ֗וֹן

H6726

of Zion

tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem

יָגִ֥ילוּ

H1523

be joyful

properly, to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear

בְמַלְכָּֽם׃

H4428

in their King

a king

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

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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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 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?