Psalms 66:5

Authorized King James Version

Come and see the works of God: he is terrible in his doing toward the children of men.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְכ֣וּ

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

וּ֭רְאוּ

H7200

and see

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

מִפְעֲל֣וֹת

H4659

the works

a performance

אֱלֹהִ֑ים

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

נוֹרָ֥א

H3372

he is terrible

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

עֲ֝לִילָ֗ה

H5949

in his doing

an exploit (of god), or a performance (of man, often in a bad sense); by implication, an opportunity

עַל

H5921

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

בְּנֵ֥י

H1121

toward the children

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אָדָֽם׃

H120

of men

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?
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?