Psalms 98:3

Authorized King James Version

He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

זָ֘כַ֤ר

H2142

He hath remembered

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

חַסְדּ֨וֹ׀

H2617

his mercy

kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty

וֶֽאֱֽמוּנָתוֹ֮

H530

and his truth

literally firmness; figuratively security; morally fidelity

לְבֵ֪ית

H1004

toward the house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

יִשְׂרָ֫אֵ֥ל

H3478

of Israel

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

רָא֥וּ

H7200

have seen

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)

אַפְסֵי

H657

all the ends

cessation, i.e., an end (especially of the earth); often used adverb, no further; also the ankle (in the dual), as being the extremity of the leg or f

אָ֑רֶץ

H776

of the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

#10

אֵ֝֗ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#11

יְשׁוּעַ֥ת

H3444

the salvation

something saved, i.e., (abstractly) deliverance; hence, aid, victory, prosperity

#12

אֱלֹהֵֽינוּ׃

H430

of our God

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

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights divine love through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of salvation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about salvation, 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 salvation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding salvation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about divine love?
What practical applications emerge from understanding divine love as presented in this verse, particularly in light of responding to cultural confusion about the nature of love and relationships?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on salvation address the problem of evil and suffering in light of God's goodness, and how should the church respond?