Psalms 68:31

Authorized King James Version

Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יֶאֱתָ֣יוּ

H857

shall come out

to arrive

חַ֭שְׁמַנִּים

H2831

Princes

wealthy

מִנִּ֣י

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

מִצְרָ֑יִם

H4714

of Egypt

mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt

כּ֥וּשׁ

H3568

Ethiopia

cush (or ethiopia), the name of an israelite

תָּרִ֥יץ

H7323

shall soon stretch out

to run (for whatever reason, especially to rush)

יָ֝דָ֗יו

H3027

her hands

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

לֵאלֹהִֽים׃

H430

unto 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

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 sovereignty 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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?
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?