Psalms 26:7

Authorized King James Version

That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לַ֭שְׁמִעַ

H8085

That I may publish

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

בְּק֣וֹל

H6963

with the voice

a voice or sound

תּוֹדָ֑ה

H8426

of thanksgiving

properly, an extension of the hand, i.e., (by implication) avowal, or (usually) adoration; specifically, a choir of worshippers

וּ֝לְסַפֵּ֗ר

H5608

and tell

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

כָּל

H3605

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

נִפְלְאוֹתֶֽיךָ׃

H6381

of all thy wondrous works

properly, perhaps to separate, i.e., distinguish (literally or figuratively); by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult, wonderful

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

What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
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 might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?