Psalms 96:8

Authorized King James Version

Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הָב֣וּ

H3051

Give

to give (whether literal or figurative); generally, to put; imperatively (reflexive) come

לַ֭יהוָה

H3068

unto the LORD

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

כְּב֣וֹד

H3519

the glory

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

שְׁמ֑וֹ

H8034

due unto his name

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

שְׂאֽוּ

H5375

bring

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

מִ֝נְחָ֗ה

H4503

an offering

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

וּבֹ֥אוּ

H935

and come

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

לְחַצְרוֹתָֽיו׃

H2691

into his courts

a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls)

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 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

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 glory in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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 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 glory address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?