Psalms 106:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 106:5
5 That I may see the good of thy chosen, that I may rejoice in the gladness of thy nation, that I may glory with thine inheritance.
Chapter Context
Psalms 106 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, mercy, wisdom. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 106:5
5 That I may see the good of thy chosen, that I may rejoice in the gladness of thy nation, that I may glory with thine inheritance.
Analysis
This verse expands the previous prayer's request. 'See the good of thy chosen' means to witness and experience the prosperity of God's elect people. 'Rejoice in the gladness of thy nation' shows desire to participate in corporate joy. 'Glory with thine inheritance' means to boast or exult together with God's special possession. The threefold parallelism ('chosen,' 'nation,' 'inheritance') emphasizes Israel's unique covenant status. The psalmist's joy is found not in personal success but in the flourishing of God's people. This reflects the biblical principle that individual flourishing is inseparable from the church's health.
Historical Context
The terms 'chosen,' 'nation,' and 'inheritance' all emphasize Israel's elect status as God's treasured people (Exodus 19:5-6; Deuteronomy 7:6). For exilic or post-exilic Jews, this prayer expressed longing to see covenant restoration and national spiritual renewal. It recognized that personal blessing is bound up with corporate covenant faithfulness.
Reflection
- How does your personal spiritual health relate to the church's corporate flourishing?
- In what ways should believers today find joy in God's work among His people?
- What does it mean to 'glory with God's inheritance' in the New Covenant context?
Cross-References
- Glory: Isaiah 45:25
- Parallel theme: Psalms 14:7, 48:11, 105:6, 105:43, 118:15, Isaiah 12:6