Psalms 44:3

Authorized King James Version

For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favour unto them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

לֹ֪א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

בְחַרְבָּ֡ם

H2719

by their own sword

drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

יָ֥רְשׁוּ

H3423

For they got

to occupy (by driving out previous tenants, and possessing in their place); by implication, to seize, to rob, to inherit; also to expel, to impoverish

אָ֗רֶץ

H776

not the land

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

וּ֭זְרוֹעֲךָ

H2220

and thine arm

the arm (as stretched out), or (of animals) the foreleg; figuratively, force

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הוֹשִׁ֪יעָ֫ה

H3467

save

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

לָּ֥מוֹ

#10

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#11

יְמִֽינְךָ֣

H3225

them but thy right hand

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

#12

וּ֭זְרוֹעֲךָ

H2220

and thine arm

the arm (as stretched out), or (of animals) the foreleg; figuratively, force

#13

וְא֥וֹר

H216

and the light

illumination or (concrete) luminary (in every sense, including lightning, happiness, etc.)

#14

פָּנֶ֗יךָ

H6440

of thy countenance

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

#15

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#16

רְצִיתָֽם׃

H7521

because thou hadst a favour

to be pleased with; specifically, to satisfy a debt

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?