Psalms 68:33

Authorized King James Version

To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, which were of old; lo, he doth send out his voice, and that a mighty voice.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לָ֭רֹכֵב

H7392

To him that rideth

to ride (on an animal or in a vehicle); causatively, to place upon (for riding or generally), to despatch

שְׁמֵי

H8064

of heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

שְׁמֵי

H8064

of heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

קֶ֑דֶם

H6924

which were of old

the front, of place (absolutely, the fore part, relatively the east) or time (antiquity); often used adverbially (before, anciently, eastward)

הֵ֥ן

H2005

lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if

יִתֵּ֥ן

H5414

lo he doth send out

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

ק֣וֹל

H6963

his voice

a voice or sound

ק֣וֹל

H6963

his voice

a voice or sound

עֹֽז׃

H5797

and that a mighty

strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)

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 revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 68 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?