Psalms 84:10

Authorized King James Version

For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

טֽוֹב

H2896

is better

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

י֥וֹם

H3117

For a day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

בַּחֲצֵרֶ֗יךָ

H2691

in thy courts

a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)

מֵ֫אָ֥לֶף

H505

than a thousand

hence (the ox's head being the first letter of the alphabet, and this eventually used as a numeral) a thousand

בָּחַ֗רְתִּי

H977

I had rather

properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select

הִ֭סְתּוֹפֵף

H5605

be a doorkeeper

to wait at the threshold

בְּבֵ֣ית

H1004

in the house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

אֱלֹהַ֑י

H430

of my 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

#10

מִ֝דּ֗וּר

H1752

than to dwell

properly, to gyrate (or move in a circle), i.e., to remain

#11

בְּאָהֳלֵי

H168

in the tents

a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)

#12

רֶֽשַׁע׃

H7562

of wickedness

a wrong (especially moral)

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

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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

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 this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?