Psalms 35:18
I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people.
Original Language Analysis
א֭וֹדְךָ
I will give thee thanks
H3034
א֭וֹדְךָ
I will give thee thanks
Strong's:
H3034
Word #:
1 of 6
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
רָ֑ב
in the great
H7227
רָ֑ב
in the great
Strong's:
H7227
Word #:
3 of 6
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
בְּעַ֖ם
people
H5971
בְּעַ֖ם
people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
4 of 6
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
Cross References
Historical Context
Israelite worship centered on communal gatherings at the tabernacle or temple. David's promise to testify publicly implies formal thanksgiving offerings accompanied by declarations of God's saving acts.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you commit to praising God publicly even before seeing the answer to prayer?
- How does your testimony of God's faithfulness encourage other believers?
Analysis & Commentary
The vow of public thanksgiving anticipates deliverance, expressing faith before rescue appears. 'Great congregation' and 'much people' emphasize public testimony magnifying God's name, not private relief. This pattern—crying out, then praising—structures many psalms, teaching that confident worship precedes visible victory. Public testimony multiplies God's glory and strengthens others' faith through shared witness.