Psalms 50:14
Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:
Original Language Analysis
לֵאלֹהִ֣ים
unto God
H430
לֵאלֹהִ֣ים
unto God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
2 of 6
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
תּוֹדָ֑ה
thanksgiving
H8426
תּוֹדָ֑ה
thanksgiving
Strong's:
H8426
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, an extension of the hand, i.e., (by implication) avowal, or (usually) adoration; specifically, a choir of worshippers
וְשַׁלֵּ֖ם
and pay
H7999
וְשַׁלֵּ֖ם
and pay
Strong's:
H7999
Word #:
4 of 6
to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate
Cross References
Hebrews 13:15By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.Psalms 56:12Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee.Deuteronomy 23:21When thou shalt vow a vow unto the LORD thy God, thou shalt not slack to pay it: for the LORD thy God will surely require it of thee; and it would be sin in thee.1 Peter 2:5Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.Psalms 76:11Vow, and pay unto the LORD your God: let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared.Hosea 14:2Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips.1 Thessalonians 5:18In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.Psalms 50:23Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.Romans 12:1I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.Psalms 147:1Praise ye the LORD: for it is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely.
Historical Context
The todah (thanksgiving offering) included testimony of God's deliverance. It was communal, celebratory, and acknowledging--not attempting to create obligation or earn favor.
Questions for Reflection
- Why is thanksgiving a more appropriate offering than animals as such?
- What is the relationship between thanksgiving and vow-keeping?
Analysis & Commentary
What God actually wants: 'Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High.' Thanksgiving (todah) acknowledges God's gifts rather than attempting to pay Him. Paying vows means fulfilling promises made to God. Both are relational, responsive acts rather than transactional exchanges.