King James Version

What Does Psalms 107:32 Mean?

Psalms 107:32 in the King James Version says “Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 107 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.

Psalms 107:32 · KJV


Context

30

Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.

31

Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

32

Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.

33

He turneth rivers into a wilderness, and the watersprings into dry ground;

34

A fruitful land into barrenness, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein. barrenness: Heb. saltiness


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse expands the call to public praise. 'Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people' calls for corporate worship. 'Exalt' (rum, רוּם) means to lift up, raise high, or extol. 'Congregation' (qahal, קָהָל) is the assembly of God's people—Israel's gathered worship. 'And praise him in the assembly of the elders' adds leadership's role. 'Assembly' (moshav, מוֹשָׁב) means seat or dwelling place. 'Elders' (zaqen, זָקֵן) are aged leaders. Praise belongs in public assembly, not just private devotion. God's wonderful works merit corporate exaltation and testimony before leaders. This establishes public worship as normative for God's people.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Israel's worship was corporate, centered in tabernacle/temple with the congregation assembled. Synagogue worship during and after exile maintained corporate structure. Elders (leaders of community) led worship and witnessed testimonies. For the church, corporate assembly for worship, testimony, and praise continues this pattern (Hebrews 10:25). Christian worship is not individualistic but corporate, with leadership's participation vital.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why is corporate worship essential, not optional, for God's people?
  2. What role should testimony and exaltation play in gathered worship?
  3. How does leadership participation in worship (elders) affect the congregation?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
וִֽ֭ירוֹמְמוּהוּ1 of 6

Let them exalt

H7311

to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

בִּקְהַל2 of 6

him also in the congregation

H6951

assemblage (usually concretely)

עָ֑ם3 of 6

of the people

H5971

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

וּבְמוֹשַׁ֖ב4 of 6

him in the assembly

H4186

a seat; figuratively, a site; abstractly, a session; by extension an abode (the place or the time); by implication, population

זְקֵנִ֣ים5 of 6

of the elders

H2205

old

יְהַלְלֽוּהוּ׃6 of 6

and praise

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


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 107:32 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 107:32 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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