Psalms 37:5

Authorized King James Version

Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
גּ֣וֹל
Commit
to roll (literally or figuratively)
#2
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
יְהוָ֣ה
unto the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
דַּרְכֶּ֑ךָ
thy way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#5
וּבְטַ֥ח
trust
properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
#6
עָ֝לָ֗יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
וְה֣וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#8
יַעֲשֶֽׂה׃
also in him and he shall bring it to pass
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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