Psalms 2:7

Authorized King James Version

I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲסַפְּרָ֗ה
I will declare
properly, to score with a mark as a tally or record, i.e., (by implication) to inscribe, and also to enumerate; intensively, to recount, i.e., celebra
#2
אֶֽ֫ל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
חֹ֥ק
the decree
an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)
#4
יְֽהוָ֗ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#5
אָמַ֘ר
hath said
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
אֵלַ֥י
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
בְּנִ֥י
unto me Thou art my Son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#8
אַ֑תָּה
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#9
אֲ֝נִ֗י
i
#10
הַיּ֥וֹם
this day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#11
יְלִדְתִּֽיךָ׃
have I begotten
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage

Cross References

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Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection