Today’s Verse is “pure praise!”

Directed from a godly Psalmist to a Holy God!

Psalm 66:8 succinctly says: “O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard.” Using two imperative verbs, “bless” and “be heard!”

This almost sounds like we have an “obligation,” albeit a delightful privilege as well, to praise the Lord! These are commands, folks!

The first verb (which is the very first word in the Hebrew sentence) is “barak,” meaning “to bless.” But in this sense, “to kneel down” in front of the one you are adoring! It also can mean “to salute, congratulate, or praise!”

The noun “God” is here spelled “elohiym,” the “Strong One!” Also the “Triune One,” if one studies the “number” of the word. It is plural!

And “people” translates “am” in Hebrew, suggesting a group of “kinsmen!” A “nation” of individuals.

“To make heard” is “shama.” It both means “to hear” but also “to obey!” The verb nearly suggests a sort of evangelism, an apologetic (which means a “defense” of our faith) … seeking to persuade men and women of God’s Greatness!

And the noun “praise” is “tehillah,” ultimately derived from “halal” of “hallelujah” fame! “To shine” with gladness, praising the Lord! The verb may also involve some sort of musical instrument.

Wow!

“O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard.”

What an honor, to try to do exactly what this verse asks of us … and to be doing it all day long!

Anyone interested?

Dr. Mike Bagwell