Psalms 65:8

Authorized King James Version

They also that dwell in the uttermost parts are afraid at thy tokens: thou makest the outgoings of the morning and evening to rejoice.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּ֤ירְא֨וּ׀

H3372

are afraid

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

יֹשְׁבֵ֣י

H3427

They also that dwell

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

קְ֭צָוֹת

H7098

a termination

מֵאוֹתֹתֶ֑יךָ

H226

at thy tokens

a signal (literally or figuratively), as a flag, beacon, monument, omen, prodigy, evidence, etc

מ֤וֹצָֽאֵי

H4161

thou makest the outgoings

a going forth, i.e., (the act) an egress, or (the place) an exit; hence, a source or product; specifically, dawn, the rising of the sun (the east), ex

בֹ֖קֶר

H1242

of the morning

properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning

וָעֶ֣רֶב

H6153

and evening

dusk

תַּרְנִֽין׃

H7442

to rejoice

properly, to creak (or emit a stridulous sound), i.e., to shout (usually for joy)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?