Psalms 92:3

Authorized King James Version

Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֲֽלֵי
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
עָ֭שׂוֹר
Upon an instrument of ten strings
ten; by abbreviated form ten strings, and so a decachord
#3
וַעֲלֵי
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
נָ֑בֶל
and upon the psaltery
a skin-bag for liquids (from collapsing when empty); also a lyre (as having a body of like form)
#5
עֲלֵ֖י
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
הִגָּי֣וֹן
with a solemn sound
a murmuring sound, i.e., a musical notation (probably similar to the modern affettuoso to indicate solemnity of movement); by implication, a machinati
#7
בְּכִנּֽוֹר׃
upon the harp
a harp

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 revelation 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection