Psalms 40:16

Authorized King James Version

Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יָ֘שִׂ֤ישׂוּ

H7797

thee rejoice

to be bright, i.e., cheerful

וְיִשְׂמְח֨וּ׀

H8055

and be glad

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

בְּךָ֗

כָּֽל

H3605

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

מְבַ֫קְשֶׁ֥יךָ

H1245

Let all those that seek

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

יֹאמְר֣וּ

H559

say

to say (used with great latitude)

תָ֭מִיד

H8548

continually

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

יִגְדַּ֣ל

H1431

be magnified

to be (causatively make) large (in various senses, as in body, mind, estate or honor, also in pride)

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

The LORD

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

#10

אֹֽ֝הֲבֵ֗י

H157

in thee let such as love

to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)

#11

תְּשׁוּעָתֶֽךָ׃

H8668

thy salvation

rescue (literal or figurative, persons, national or spiritual)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights divine love through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of divine love within the theological tradition of Psalms Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on love address the problem of evil and suffering in light of God's goodness, and how should the church respond?
How does the divine love theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?