Psalms 68:25

Authorized King James Version

The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; among them were the damsels playing with timbrels.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
קִדְּמ֣וּ
went before
to project (one self), i.e., precede; hence, to anticipate, hasten, meet (usually for help)
#2
שָׁ֭רִים
The singers
to sing
#3
אַחַ֣ר
followed after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#4
נֹגְנִ֑ים
the players on instruments
properly, to thrum, i.e., beat a tune with the fingers; expectation. to play on a stringed instrument; hence (generally), to make music
#5
בְּת֥וֹךְ
among
a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center
#6
עֲ֝לָמ֗וֹת
them were the damsels
a lass (as veiled or private)
#7
תּוֹפֵפֽוֹת׃
playing with timbrels
to drum, i.e., play (as) on the tambourine

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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