Psalms 91:9

Authorized King James Version

Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
אַתָּ֣ה
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#3
יְהוָ֣ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
מַחְסִ֑י
which is my refuge
a shelter (literally or figuratively)
#5
עֶ֝לְי֗וֹן
even the most High
an elevation, i.e., (adjectively) lofty (comparatively); as title, the supreme
#6
שַׂ֣מְתָּ
Because thou hast made
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
#7
מְעוֹנֶֽךָ׃
thy habitation
an abode, of god (the tabernacle or the temple), men (their home) or animals (their lair); hence, a retreat (asylum)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection