Psalms 96:13

Authorized King James Version

Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לִפְנֵ֤י
H6440
Before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#2
יְהוָ֨ה׀
H3068
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
כִּ֬י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
בָא֮
H935
for he cometh
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#5
כִּ֥י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
בָא֮
H935
for he cometh
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#7
יִשְׁפֹּֽט
H8199
he shall judge
to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal
#8
הָ֫אָ֥רֶץ
H776
the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#9
יִשְׁפֹּֽט
H8199
he shall judge
to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal
#10
תֵּבֵ֥ל
H8398
the world
the earth (as moist and therefore inhabited); by extension, the globe; by implication, its inhabitants; specifically, a particular land, as babylonia,
#11
בְּצֶ֑דֶק
H6664
with righteousness
the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity
#12
וְ֝עַמִּ֗ים
H5971
and the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#13
בֶּאֱמוּנָתֽוֹ׃
H530
with his truth
literally firmness; figuratively security; morally fidelity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood righteousness. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection