Psalms 44:8
In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.
Original Language Analysis
בֵּֽ֭אלֹהִים
In God
H430
בֵּֽ֭אלֹהִים
In God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
1 of 8
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
we boast
H1984
הִלַּלְ֣נוּ
we boast
Strong's:
H1984
Word #:
2 of 8
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
כָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
הַיּ֑וֹם
all the day
H3117
הַיּ֑וֹם
all the day
Strong's:
H3117
Word #:
4 of 8
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׀
thy name
H8034
וְשִׁמְךָ֓׀
thy name
Strong's:
H8034
Word #:
5 of 8
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
לְעוֹלָ֖ם
for ever
H5769
לְעוֹלָ֖ם
for ever
Strong's:
H5769
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
Cross References
Psalms 34:2My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.Jeremiah 9:24But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.Romans 2:17Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God,Isaiah 45:25In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory.Psalms 30:12To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.
Historical Context
This verse forms part of Israel's public worship, likely sung in temple liturgy. The 'Selah' marking indicates a musical pause or interlude, allowing the congregation to reflect on the declaration of trust.
Questions for Reflection
- What does it mean to 'boast in God' rather than in our accomplishments?
- How does public praise differ from private gratitude in its effect on faith and community?
Analysis & Commentary
The confident declaration 'In God we boast all the day long' makes God the constant subject of praise and the sole ground of confidence. 'Praise thy name for ever' commits to eternal acknowledgment of God's character. The term 'boast' (halal) suggests loud, public proclamation--not private gratitude but corporate witness.