King James Version

What Does Psalms 105:3 Mean?

Psalms 105:3 in the King James Version says “Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 105 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.

Psalms 105:3 · KJV


Context

1

O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people.

2

Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works.

3

Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.

4

Seek the LORD, and his strength: seek his face evermore.

5

Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
To 'glory in his holy name' means to boast in God's character and reputation. Hearts of those seeking the LORD should rejoice. This connects worship (glorying in God's name) with active pursuit (seeking). 'Seeking' (darash) implies diligent inquiry and pursuit, not passive waiting. Rejoicing characterizes genuine seekers—finding God brings joy. Christ promised that seekers would find (Matt 7:7-8). The Reformed doctrine of effectual calling recognizes that all who genuinely seek God do so because He first called them.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

God's 'holy name' represents His complete character and reputation. Glorying in His name meant celebrating His uniqueness and covenant faithfulness, particularly His redemptive acts in Israel's history.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean practically to 'glory' in God's name rather than your own achievements?
  2. How does your heart's rejoicing (or lack thereof) indicate the genuineness of your seeking God?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
הִֽ֭תְהַלְלוּ1 of 7

Glory

H1984

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

בְּשֵׁ֣ם2 of 7

name

H8034

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

קָדְשׁ֑וֹ3 of 7

ye in his holy

H6944

a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

יִ֝שְׂמַ֗ח4 of 7

of them rejoice

H8055

probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome

לֵ֤ב׀5 of 7

let the heart

H3820

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

מְבַקְשֵׁ֬י6 of 7

that seek

H1245

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

יְהוָֽה׃7 of 7

the LORD

H3068

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


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 105:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 105:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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