Psalms 44:8

In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בֵּֽ֭אלֹהִים

H430

In God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

הִלַּלְ֣נוּ

H1984

we boast

to be clear (orig. of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence, to make a show, to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causativ

כָל

H3605

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

הַיּ֑וֹם

H3117

all the day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

וְשִׁמְךָ֓׀

H8034

thy name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

לְעוֹלָ֖ם

H5769

for ever

properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial

נוֹדֶ֣ה

H3034

long and praise

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

סֶֽלָה׃

H5542

Selah

suspension (of music), i.e., pause

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

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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 44 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?