Psalms 33:21

For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.

For our heart {H3820} shall rejoice {H8055} in him, because we have trusted {H982} in his holy {H6944} name {H8034}.

For in him our hearts rejoice, because we trust in his holy name.

For our hearts rejoice in Him, since we trust in His holy name.

For our heart shall rejoice in him, Because we have trusted in his holy name.

Commentary

Psalm 33:21 beautifully encapsulates the profound connection between faith and joy for the believer. It declares that the heart's rejoicing is a direct result of placing unwavering trust in God's very being.

Context

This verse is part of a larger psalm that is a hymn of praise, celebrating God's creative power, His sovereignty over all nations, and His steadfast love for those who fear Him. Psalm 33 emphasizes that God's plans stand firm, unlike human endeavors (Psalm 33:10-11). The psalm speaks of God's watchful eye over His people, those who hope in His mercy (see Psalm 33:18). Verse 21, therefore, serves as a confident declaration of the psalmist's and the believing community's response to such a powerful and faithful God.

Key Themes

  • Trust in God (bāṭaḥ): The core of the verse. To "trust in his holy name" means to lean fully on God's character, His promises, and His divine nature. It's not a passive hope but an active reliance and confidence in who God is. This trust is the foundation for all spiritual joy.
  • Rejoicing in God (yaloz): The outcome of genuine trust. This is a deep, internal gladness and exultation that originates from a secure relationship with the Almighty. It's a joy that transcends circumstances because it's rooted in God Himself, not in earthly conditions.
  • God's Holy Name: More than just a label, God's "holy name" (shem qodshô) represents His entire being, His attributes, His authority, and His covenant faithfulness. To trust in His holy name is to trust in His absolute purity, power, and trustworthiness. This concept is vital in understanding God's revealed character throughout Scripture, as seen in passages like Psalm 20:7.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "trusted" here is bāṭaḥ, which conveys a sense of security, confidence, and leaning upon. It implies a firm and unwavering reliance. The word for "rejoice" is from the root alaz (here yaloz), suggesting an exultation or triumph, indicating a profound and expressive joy that springs from the heart. The phrase "his holy name" (shem qodshô) emphasizes the sacredness and unique nature of God's character, underscoring that our trust is placed in a God who is utterly distinct and pure.

Practical Application

Psalm 33:21 offers timeless encouragement for believers today. In a world filled with uncertainty and fear, this verse reminds us that true, lasting joy is found not in circumstances or possessions, but in placing our complete faith in God. When we genuinely trust in the Lord with all our heart, our hearts are enabled to rejoice in Him, regardless of external pressures. It calls us to cultivate a deeper reliance on God's unchanging character and promises, leading to an inner peace and a joy that the world cannot give or take away. This is the essence of the call to "Rejoice in the Lord alway".

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Cross-References

  • Psalms 13:5 (10 votes)

    But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.

  • Zechariah 10:7 (5 votes)

    And [they of] Ephraim shall be like a mighty [man], and their heart shall rejoice as through wine: yea, their children shall see [it], and be glad; their heart shall rejoice in the LORD.

  • John 16:22 (4 votes)

    And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

  • Psalms 30:10 (4 votes)

    Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper.

  • Psalms 30:12 (4 votes)

    To the end that [my] glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.

  • Revelation 4:8 (4 votes)

    ¶ And the four beasts had each of them six wings about [him]; and [they were] full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come.

  • 1 Chronicles 16:10 (3 votes)

    Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.