Psalms 149:7

Authorized King James Version

To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת
To execute
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
נְ֭קָמָה
vengeance
avengement, whether the act of the passion
#3
בַּגּוֹיִ֑ם
upon the heathen
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
#4
תּ֝וֹכֵח֗וֹת
and punishments
chastisement; figuratively (by words) correction, refutation, proof (even in defense)
#5
בַּלְאֻמִּֽים׃
upon the people
a community

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 covenant community 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 covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection