Psalms 76:9

Authorized King James Version

When God arose to judgment, to save all the meek of the earth. Selah.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בְּקוּם

H6965

arose

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

לַמִּשְׁפָּ֥ט

H4941

to judgment

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

אֱלֹהִ֑ים

H430

When 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

לְהוֹשִׁ֖יעַ

H3467

to save

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עַנְוֵי

H6035

all the meek

depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly)

אֶ֣רֶץ

H776

of the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

סֶֽלָה׃

H5542

Selah

suspension (of music), i.e., pause

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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 sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?