King James Version
What Does Psalms 68:27 Mean?
“There is little Benjamin with their ruler, the princes of Judah and their council, the princes of Zebulun, and the princes of Naphtali. and their: or, with their company”
Psalms 68:27 · KJV
Context
25
The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; among them were the damsels playing with timbrels.
26
Bless ye God in the congregations, even the Lord, from the fountain of Israel. from: or, ye that are of the fountain of Israel
27
There is little Benjamin with their ruler, the princes of Judah and their council, the princes of Zebulun, and the princes of Naphtali. and their: or, with their company
28
Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us.
29
Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe listing of tribes—little Benjamin leading, princes of Judah, Zebulun, and Naphtali—represents all Israel unified in worship. Benjamin, smallest yet leading, shows God's delight in elevating the humble. Judah's prominence anticipates Messiah's royal lineage. Including northern tribes (Zebulun, Naphtali) emphasizes unity despite later divisions. This diverse yet unified assembly foreshadows the church gathered from all nations (Revelation 7:9).
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
These tribes represented different regions and historical roles. Benjamin was small, Judah held royal leadership, while Zebulun and Naphtali were northern. Their joint worship demonstrated covenant unity transcending tribal differences.
Reflection Questions
- How does the church's diversity strengthen rather than fragment its worship and witness?
- What 'tribal' differences (denominational, cultural, generational) must be transcended for genuine unity?
- In what ways does God intentionally elevate the 'little' and humble in His kingdom?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 11 wordsבִּנְיָמִ֨ן׀2 of 11
“Benjamin”
H1144binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
יְ֭הוּדָה6 of 11
“of Judah”
H3063jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
נַפְתָּלִֽי׃11 of 11
“of Naphtali”
H5321naphtali, a son of jacob, with the tribe descended from him, and its territory
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 68:27 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 68:27 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge