Psalms 96:3

Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people.

Word-by-Word Analysis

סַפְּר֣וּ

H5608

Declare

properly, to score with a mark as a tally or record, i.e., (by implication) to inscribe, and also to enumerate; intensively, to recount, i.e., celebra

בַגּוֹיִ֣ם

H1471

among the heathen

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

כְּבוֹד֑וֹ

H3519

his glory

properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness

בְּכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הָֽ֝עַמִּ֗ים

H5971

among all people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

נִפְלְאוֹתָֽיו׃

H6381

his wonders

properly, perhaps to separate, i.e., distinguish (literally or figuratively); by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult, wonderful

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of glory reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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 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?
How might the original audience's understanding of glory differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?