Psalms 47:4
He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah.
Original Language Analysis
יִבְחַר
He shall choose
H977
יִבְחַר
He shall choose
Strong's:
H977
Word #:
1 of 10
properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
3 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
נַחֲלָתֵ֑נוּ
our inheritance
H5159
נַחֲלָתֵ֑נוּ
our inheritance
Strong's:
H5159
Word #:
4 of 10
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
אֶ֥ת
H853
אֶ֥ת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
אֲשֶׁר
H834
אֲשֶׁר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
8 of 10
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
Cross References
1 Peter 1:4To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,Nahum 2:2For the LORD hath turned away the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency of Israel: for the emptiers have emptied them out, and marred their vine branches.Amos 6:8The Lord GOD hath sworn by himself, saith the LORD the God of hosts, I abhor the excellency of Jacob, and hate his palaces: therefore will I deliver up the city with all that is therein.Amos 8:7The LORD hath sworn by the excellency of Jacob, Surely I will never forget any of their works.Hosea 14:4I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.
Historical Context
The land was Israel's inheritance from God (Deuteronomy 4:21). God's choosing both the people and their inheritance emphasized that every blessing came from divine initiative, not human merit.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'inheritance' has God chosen for believers in Christ?
- How does God's choosing transform our understanding of what we have received?
Analysis & Commentary
God 'shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved.' The 'inheritance' primarily refers to the promised land but extends to all covenant blessings. 'Excellency of Jacob' (Hebrew ga'on) is the pride or glory of Israel--their special status as God's chosen people.