Psalms 33:1

Authorized King James Version

Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רַנְּנ֣וּ
Rejoice
properly, to creak (or emit a stridulous sound), i.e., to shout (usually for joy)
#2
צַ֭דִּיקִים
O ye righteous
just
#3
בַּֽיהוָ֑ה
in the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
לַ֝יְשָׁרִ֗ים
for the upright
straight (literally or figuratively)
#5
נָאוָ֥ה
is comely
suitable, or beautiful
#6
תְהִלָּֽה׃
for praise
laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn

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

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection