Psalms 43:3

Authorized King James Version

O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שְׁלַח
O send out
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#2
אוֹרְךָ֣
thy light
illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)
#3
וַ֭אֲמִתְּךָ
and thy truth
stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness
#4
הֵ֣מָּה
they (only used when emphatic)
#5
יַנְח֑וּנִי
let them lead
to guide; by implication, to transport (into exile, or as colonists)
#6
יְבִיא֥וּנִי
me let them bring
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#7
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
הַֽר
hill
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#9
קָ֝דְשְׁךָ֗
me unto thy holy
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
#10
וְאֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#11
מִשְׁכְּנוֹתֶֽיךָ׃
and to thy tabernacles
a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of truth connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about truth, 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. 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 truth in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection