King James Version

What Does Psalms 68:3 Mean?

Psalms 68:3 in the King James Version says “But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. exceedingly: Heb. rejoice... — study this verse from Psalms chapter 68 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. exceedingly: Heb. rejoice with gladness

Psalms 68:3 · KJV


Context

1

To the chief Musician, A Psalm or Song of David. Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him. before: Heb. from his face

2

As smoke is driven away, so drive them away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God.

3

But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. exceedingly: Heb. rejoice with gladness

4

Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.

5

A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
In stark contrast to the wicked's demise, 'the righteous shall be glad' in God's presence. The threefold description—glad, rejoice, exceedingly joyful—builds to climax, emphasizing uninhibited celebration. This joy isn't based on circumstantial prosperity but on covenant relationship with God. The righteous find their greatest pleasure in God Himself, His presence their highest reward. This anticipates Jesus's teaching that the pure in heart shall see God (Matthew 5:8).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Joyful celebration marked Israel's festivals—Passover, Tabernacles, and especially the ark's procession into Jerusalem under David (2 Samuel 6). These occasions reminded God's people that His presence is the source of all true joy.

Reflection Questions

  1. What is the relationship between righteousness (right standing with God) and joy in His presence?
  2. How does your personal experience of joy in God compare to your joy in His blessings or gifts?
  3. In what ways can corporate worship cultivate 'exceeding joy' in God's presence?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
וְֽצַדִּיקִ֗ים1 of 7

But let the righteous

H6662

just

יִשְׂמְח֣וּ2 of 7

be glad

H8055

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

יַֽ֭עַלְצוּ3 of 7

let them rejoice

H5970

to jump for joy, i.e., exult

לִפְנֵ֥י4 of 7

before

H6440

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

אֱלֹהִ֗ים5 of 7

God

H430

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

וְיָשִׂ֥ישׂוּ6 of 7

rejoice

H7797

to be bright, i.e., cheerful

בְשִׂמְחָֽה׃7 of 7

yea let them exceedingly

H8057

blithesomeness or glee, (religious or festival)


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 68:3 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 68:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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