Psalms 64:9

Authorized King James Version

And all men shall fear, and shall declare the work of God; for they shall wisely consider of his doing.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּֽירְא֗וּ

H3372

shall fear

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

כָּל

H3605

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

אָ֫דָ֥ם

H120

And all men

ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)

וַ֭יַּגִּידוּ

H5046

and shall declare

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

פֹּ֥עַל

H6467

the work

an act or work (concretely)

אֱלֹהִ֗ים

H430

of 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

וּֽמַעֲשֵׂ֥הוּ

H4639

of his doing

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

הִשְׂכִּֽילוּ׃

H7919

for they shall wisely consider

to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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