Psalms 75:9
But I will declare for ever; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob.
Original Language Analysis
אַגִּ֣יד
But I will declare
H5046
אַגִּ֣יד
But I will declare
Strong's:
H5046
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
לְעֹלָ֑ם
for ever
H5769
לְעֹלָ֑ם
for ever
Strong's:
H5769
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
אֲ֝זַמְּרָ֗ה
I will sing praises
H2167
אֲ֝זַמְּרָ֗ה
I will sing praises
Strong's:
H2167
Word #:
4 of 6
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
Historical Context
Psalm 75 is attributed to Asaph, David's chief musician and seer (1 Chronicles 25:1-2, 2 Chronicles 29:30). The Asaphite psalms often address issues of theodicy—why the wicked prosper and how God will judge. This psalm likely emerged from Israel's worship liturgy, possibly during times when foreign powers threatened or internal corruption flourished. The reference to 'God of Jacob' anchors hope in the Abrahamic covenant, reminding Israel that the same God who kept promises to the patriarchs will execute justice for their descendants.
Questions for Reflection
- How does committing to 'declare forever' God's works change your perspective during seasons when judgment seems delayed?
- What does it mean to praise the 'God of Jacob'—the God who works through flawed people and keeps covenant despite human failure?
- How can public testimony ('declare') of God's justice encourage believers facing persecution or injustice?
Analysis & Commentary
But I will declare for ever; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. Amid pronouncements of divine judgment, the psalmist interrupts with personal vow of perpetual worship. The emphatic "But I" (Hebrew וַאֲנִי/va'ani) contrasts the psalmist's response with the arrogant wicked who exalt their own horn (v. 4-5). While the ungodly boast, the righteous worship.
"I will declare for ever" uses נָגַד (nagad), meaning to make known, announce, proclaim. This isn't private devotion but public testimony—declaring God's righteous judgments to all generations. The commitment is eternal: "for ever" (לְעֹלָם/le'olam). Earthly kingdoms rise and fall, but the worshiper's praise continues through all ages.
"Sing praises to the God of Jacob" employs זָמַר (zamar), denoting musical praise with instruments. The title "God of Jacob" (אֱלֹהֵי יַעֲקֹב/Elohei Ya'akov) recalls covenant faithfulness to the patriarchs—the God who wrestled with Jacob, renamed him Israel, and fulfilled promises despite human weakness. This grounds worship not in circumstances but in God's unchanging character and covenant loyalty.