Psalms 78:4

Authorized King James Version

We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹ֤א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

נְכַחֵ֨ד׀

H3582

We will not hide

to secrete, by act or word; hence (intensively) to destroy

מִבְּנֵיהֶ֗ם

H1121

them from their children

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

לְד֥וֹר

H1755

to the generation

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

אַחֲר֗וֹן

H314

to come

hinder; generally, late or last; specifically (as facing the east) western

מְֽ֭סַפְּרִים

H5608

shewing

properly, to score with a mark as a tally or record, i.e., (by implication) to inscribe, and also to enumerate; intensively, to recount, i.e., celebra

תְּהִלּ֣וֹת

H8416

the praises

laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וֶעֱזוּז֥וֹ

H5807

and his strength

forcibleness

#10

וְ֝נִפְלְאֹתָ֗יו

H6381

and his wonderful works

properly, perhaps to separate, i.e., distinguish (literally or figuratively); by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult, wonderful

#11

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#12

עָשָֽׂה׃

H6213

that he hath done

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?