Psalms 78:54

Authorized King James Version

And he brought them to the border of his sanctuary, even to this mountain, which his right hand had purchased.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַ֭יְבִיאֵם
And he brought
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#2
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
גְּב֣וּל
them to the border
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
#4
קָדְשׁ֑וֹ
of his sanctuary
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
#5
הַר
even to this mountain
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#6
זֶ֝֗ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#7
קָנְתָ֥ה
had purchased
to erect, i.e., create; by extension, to procure, especially by purchase (causatively, sell); by implication to own
#8
יְמִינֽוֹ׃
which his right hand
the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection