Psalms 9:4

For thou hast maintained my right and my cause; thou satest in the throne judging right.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

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

עָ֭שִׂיתָ

H6213

For thou hast maintained

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

מִשְׁפָּטִ֣י

H4941

my right

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

וְדִינִ֑י

H1779

and my cause

judgement (the suit, justice, sentence or tribunal); by implication also strife

יָשַׁ֥בְתָּ

H3427

thou satest

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

לְ֝כִסֵּ֗א

H3678

in the throne

properly, covered, i.e., a throne (as canopied)

שׁוֹפֵ֥ט

H8199

judging

to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal

צֶֽדֶק׃

H6664

right

the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?