King James Version

What Does Psalms 111:2 Mean?

Psalms 111:2 in the King James Version says “The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 111 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.”

Psalms 111:2 · KJV

Context

1

Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. Praise ye: Heb. Hallelujah

2

The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.

3

His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever.

4

He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse explains what motivates praise: 'The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.' 'Great' (Hebrew 'gadol') means not merely large but significant, magnificent, and worthy of attention. 'Works' encompasses God's creative acts, historical interventions, providential care, and redemptive deeds. The phrase 'sought out' (Hebrew 'darash') implies diligent searching, investigation, and meditation - not casual observation but intentional study. Those who 'have pleasure therein' (Hebrew 'chefetz') delight in, desire, and treasure God's works. The verse establishes that God's works are inherently great, but their greatness is discovered through careful examination. This creates a reciprocal relationship: delight in God's works motivates seeking them, and seeking them increases delight. The verse implicitly rebukes superficial faith that doesn't seriously study God's revealed character and actions. It elevates meditation and study as acts of worship.

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Historical & Cultural Context

In ancient Israel, knowing God's 'works' involved recounting salvation history - the exodus, wilderness provision, conquest, and preservation through enemies. These narratives were rehearsed regularly in worship (Deuteronomy 6:20-25, Psalms 78, 105, 106). The command to 'seek out' God's works connects to the wisdom tradition where students are encouraged to search for understanding like hidden treasure (Proverbs 2:1-5). In the post-exilic period, the study of Torah became central to Jewish identity, with scribes and teachers carefully examining God's word and works. The phrase 'all them that have pleasure therein' describes genuine seekers - those who study God's works not merely as academic exercise but as spiritual pursuit. This anticipates Jesus's teaching that those who seek will find (Matthew 7:7). Church history shows that revival and renewal often accompany recovered study of Scripture and meditation on God's mighty acts. The verse validates intellectual engagement with God's revelation as an act of worship.

Reflection Questions

  1. What are 'the works of the LORD' that should be the object of our study and meditation?
  2. How does 'seeking out' God's works differ from casual or superficial reading of Scripture?
  3. What is the relationship between delight in God's works and diligent study of them?
  4. Why does careful examination of God's works lead to greater praise?
  5. In what practical ways can believers cultivate the practice of 'seeking out' God's works?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
גְּ֭דֹלִים1 of 6

“are great”

H1419

great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent

מַעֲשֵׂ֣י2 of 6

“The works”

H4639

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

יְהוָ֑ה3 of 6

“of the LORD”

H3068

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

דְּ֝רוּשִׁ֗ים4 of 6

“sought out”

H1875

properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow (for pursuit or search); by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship

לְכָל5 of 6
H3605

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

חֶפְצֵיהֶֽם׃6 of 6

“of all them that have pleasure”

H2656

pleasure; hence (abstractly) desire; concretely, a valuable thing; hence (by extension) a matter (as something in mind)

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 111:2 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 111:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Psalms 104:24Proverbs 24:14Psalms 139:14Psalms 143:5Jeremiah 32:17-19Ephesians 1:19

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