Psalms 97:7

Authorized King James Version

Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יֵבֹ֤שׁוּ׀

H954

Confounded

properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed

כָּל

H3605

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

עֹ֬בְדֵי

H5647

be all they that serve

to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

פֶ֗סֶל

H6459

graven images

an idol

הַמִּֽתְהַלְלִ֥ים

H1984

that boast

to be clear (orig. of sound, but usually of color); to shine; hence, to make a show, to boast; and thus to be (clamorously) foolish; to rave; causativ

בָּאֱלִילִ֑ים

H457

themselves of idols

good for nothing, by analogy vain or vanity; specifically an idol

הִשְׁתַּחֲווּ

H7812

worship

to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)

ל֝וֹ

כָּל

H3605

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

#10

אֱלֹהִֽים׃

H430

him all ye gods

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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?
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?
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?