Psalms 9:2
I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High.
Original Language Analysis
אֶשְׂמְחָ֣ה
I will be glad
H8055
אֶשְׂמְחָ֣ה
I will be glad
Strong's:
H8055
Word #:
1 of 6
probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome
אֲזַמְּרָ֖ה
in thee I will sing praise
H2167
אֲזַמְּרָ֖ה
in thee I will sing praise
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
Cross References
Psalms 83:18That men may know that thou, whose name alone is JEHOVAH, art the most high over all the earth.Psalms 5:11But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.Psalms 97:9For thou, LORD, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.Psalms 28:7The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.Psalms 7:17I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high.Psalms 92:1It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:Psalms 97:12Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.Philippians 4:4Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
Historical Context
This acrostic psalm celebrates God's victory over enemies. The title suggests it may relate to a specific deliverance. The emphasis on God's name and supremacy reflects Israel's monotheistic worship distinguishing them from polytheistic neighbors. Praising God's name meant celebrating His covenant character and faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- Is your joy primarily rooted in God Himself or in His blessings?
- How does praise of God's name (character) differ from generic expressions of thanks?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse expresses complete joy and devotion to God. 'Be glad' (Hebrew 'samach') and 'rejoice' (Hebrew 'gil') are near synonyms emphasizing wholehearted delight. 'In thee' shows the proper object of joy - not circumstances but God Himself. 'Sing praise to thy name' connects worship to God's revealed character (His name). 'Most High' (Hebrew 'Elyon') emphasizes God's sovereignty and supremacy. This verse models theocentric joy - finding ultimate satisfaction in God's character and presence rather than gifts or circumstances.