Psalms 92:4

For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

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

שִׂמַּחְתַּ֣נִי

H8055

hast made me glad

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

יְהוָ֣ה

H3068

For thou LORD

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

בְּפָעֳלֶ֑ךָ

H6467

through thy work

an act or work (concretely)

בְּֽמַעֲשֵׂ֖י

H4639

in the works

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

יָדֶ֣יךָ

H3027

of thy hands

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

אֲרַנֵּֽן׃

H7442

I will triumph

properly, to creak (or emit a stridulous sound), i.e., to shout (usually for joy)

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?