Psalms 20:7

Authorized King James Version

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֵ֣לֶּה
these or those
#2
בָ֭רֶכֶב
Some trust in chariots
a vehicle; by implication, a team; by extension, cavalry; by analogy a rider, i.e., the upper millstone
#3
וְאֵ֣לֶּה
these or those
#4
בַסּוּסִ֑ים
and some in horses
a horse (as leaping)
#5
וַאֲנַ֓חְנוּ׀
we
#6
בְּשֵׁם
the name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#7
יְהוָ֖ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
אֱלֹהֵ֣ינוּ
our God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#9
נַזְכִּֽיר׃
but we will remember
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

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 sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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