Psalms 68:4

Authorized King James Version

Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שִׁ֤ירוּ׀
H7891
Sing
to sing
#2
לֵֽאלֹהִים֮
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
#3
זַמְּר֪וּ
H2167
sing praises
properly, to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument, i.e., play upon it; to make music, accompanied by the voice; hence to celebrate in so
#4
שְׁמ֗וֹ
H8034
by his name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#5
סֹ֡לּוּ
H5549
extol
to mound up (especially a turnpike); figurative, to exalt; reflexively, to oppose (as by a dam)
#6
לָרֹכֵ֣ב
H7392
him that rideth
to ride (on an animal or in a vehicle); causatively, to place upon (for riding or generally), to despatch
#7
בָּ֭עֲרָבוֹת
H6160
upon the heavens
a desert; especially (with the article prefix) the (generally) sterile valley of the jordan and its continuation to the red sea
#8
בְּיָ֥הּ
H3050
JAH
jah, the sacred name
#9
שְׁמ֗וֹ
H8034
by his name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#10
וְעִלְז֥וּ
H5937
and rejoice
to jump for joy, i.e., exult
#11
לְפָנָֽיו׃
H6440
before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

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