Psalms 45:17

Authorized King James Version

I will make thy name to be remembered in all generations: therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אַזְכִּ֣ירָה

H2142

to be remembered

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

שִׁ֭מְךָ

H8034

I will make thy name

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

בְּכָל

H3605

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

וָדֹ֑ר

H1755

generations

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

וָדֹ֑ר

H1755

generations

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

כֵּ֥ן

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

עַמִּ֥ים

H5971

therefore shall the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

יְ֝הוֹדוּ֗ךָ

H3034

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

#10

לְעֹלָ֥ם

H5769

thee for ever

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

#11

וָעֶֽד׃

H5703

and ever

properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of covenant community reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant community address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?