Psalms 72:19

Authorized King James Version

And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּבָר֤וּךְ׀
And blessed
to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as
#2
שֵׁ֥ם
name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#3
כְ֭בוֹדוֹ
be his glorious
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness
#4
לְע֫וֹלָ֥ם
for ever
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
#5
וְיִמָּלֵ֣א
be filled
to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)
#6
כְ֭בוֹדוֹ
be his glorious
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
כֹּ֥ל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#9
הָאָ֗רֶץ
and let the whole earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#10
וְאָמֵֽן׃
Amen
sure; abstract, faithfulness; adverb, truly
#11
וְאָמֵֽן׃
Amen
sure; abstract, faithfulness; adverb, truly

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of glory connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about glory, 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 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 glory. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection