Psalms 92:1

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:

Word-by-Word Analysis

ט֗וֹב

H2896

It is a good

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

לְהֹד֥וֹת

H3034

thing to give thanks

physically, to throw (a stone, an arrow) at or away; especially to revere or worship (with extended hands); intensively, to bemoan (by wringing the ha

לַיהוָ֑ה

H3068

unto the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וּלְזַמֵּ֖ר

H2167

and to sing praises

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

לְשִׁמְךָ֣

H8034

unto thy name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

עֶלְיֽוֹן׃

H5945

O most High

an elevation, i.e., (adjectively) lofty (comparatively); as title, the supreme

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 92 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?