Psalms 30:4

Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.

Word-by-Word Analysis

זַמְּר֣וּ

H2167

Sing

properly, to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e., play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in so

לַיהוָ֣ה

H3068

unto the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

חֲסִידָ֑יו

H2623

O ye saints

properly, kind, i.e., (religiously) pious (a saint)

וְ֝הוֹד֗וּ

H3034

of his and give thanks

physically, to throw (a stone, an arrow) at or away; especially to revere or worship (with extended hands); intensively, to bemoan (by wringing the ha

לְזֵ֣כֶר

H2143

at the remembrance

a memento, abstractly recollection (rarely if ever); by implication, commemoration

קָדְשֽׁוֹ׃

H6944

of his holiness

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

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 holiness 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 holiness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of holiness differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on holiness address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?