Psalms 97:6

The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הִגִּ֣ידוּ

H5046

declare

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

הַשָּׁמַ֣יִם

H8064

The heavens

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

צִדְק֑וֹ

H6664

his righteousness

the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity

וְרָא֖וּ

H7200

see

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

כָל

H3605

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

הָעַמִּ֣ים

H5971

and all the people

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

כְּבוֹדֽוֹ׃

H3519

his glory

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

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 righteousness contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

In what ways does understanding righteousness in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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?