Psalms 34:1

I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֲבָרֲכָ֣ה

H1288

I will bless

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יְהוָ֣ה

H3068

the LORD

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

בְּכָל

H3605

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

עֵ֑ת

H6256

at all times

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

תָּ֝מִ֗יד

H8548

shall continually

properly, continuance (as indefinite extension); but used only (attributively as adjective) constant (or adverbially, constantly); elliptically the re

תְּֽהִלָּת֥וֹ

H8416

his praise

laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn

בְּפִֽי׃

H6310

be in my mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?