Come
The Hebrew word for "come" is "הִנֵּה" (hinneh), which is often used as an interjection to draw attention or to call someone to action. In this context, it serves as an invitation or exhortation, urging the faithful to approach with intention and readiness. This word sets the tone for the psalm, emphasizing the importance of active participation in worship and the communal aspect of faith.

bless
The Hebrew root for "bless" is "בָּרַךְ" (barak), which means to kneel, to praise, or to invoke divine favor. In the context of this psalm, blessing the LORD is an act of worship and reverence, acknowledging His sovereignty and goodness. It is a call to express gratitude and adoration, recognizing God's majesty and the blessings He bestows upon His people.

the LORD
The term "LORD" is translated from the Hebrew "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the sacred and personal name of God, often rendered as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal presence and covenant relationship with His people. It is a reminder of His faithfulness and the intimate connection He desires with those who worship Him.

all you servants of the LORD
The phrase "servants of the LORD" refers to those who are dedicated to serving God, particularly the Levites and priests who ministered in the temple. The Hebrew word for "servants" is "עֲבָדִים" (avadim), which implies a sense of duty and devotion. This highlights the honor and responsibility of serving God, emphasizing that all believers are called to be His servants, living lives of obedience and worship.

who serve by night
Serving "by night" indicates the continuous and unceasing nature of worship and service to God. The Hebrew word "לַיְלָה" (laylah) for "night" suggests a time of quiet and reflection, when the world is at rest. This phrase underscores the dedication required to serve God at all times, even in the stillness and solitude of the night, symbolizing vigilance and faithfulness.

in the house of the LORD
The "house of the LORD" refers to the temple in Jerusalem, the central place of worship for the Israelites. The Hebrew word "בֵּית" (bayit) for "house" signifies a dwelling place, a sacred space where God's presence resides. This phrase reminds believers of the importance of gathering in community to worship and the privilege of entering into God's presence, whether in a physical temple or through the spiritual temple of the heart.

Lift up your hands
The phrase "Lift up your hands" is a call to action, a physical expression of worship and surrender. In the Hebrew context, the act of lifting hands is often associated with prayer and blessing. The Hebrew word for "lift" is "nasa," which means to carry or bear. This gesture signifies an offering of oneself to God, a symbolic act of reaching out to the divine. Historically, this practice can be traced back to the ancient Near Eastern customs where lifting hands was a common posture in prayer, symbolizing openness and receptivity to God's presence and blessings.

in the sanctuary
The term "in the sanctuary" refers to the holy place where God dwells. In Hebrew, the word for sanctuary is "qodesh," meaning a sacred or holy place. This phrase emphasizes the importance of worshiping God in a designated holy space, which, in the context of ancient Israel, would have been the temple in Jerusalem. The sanctuary represents God's presence among His people, a place set apart for divine encounters. This highlights the significance of approaching God with reverence and awe, acknowledging His holiness and the sacredness of the space dedicated to His worship.

and bless the LORD
The phrase "and bless the LORD" is an exhortation to praise and honor God. The Hebrew word for "bless" is "barak," which means to kneel or to give adoration. This act of blessing God is a reciprocal response to His goodness and faithfulness. In the biblical context, blessing the LORD is an acknowledgment of His sovereignty, grace, and mercy. It is an expression of gratitude and devotion, recognizing God's supreme authority and benevolence. This phrase calls believers to actively engage in worship, offering heartfelt praise and thanksgiving to the Creator.

May the LORD
The phrase "May the LORD" invokes the covenant name of God, Yahweh, which is often translated as "LORD" in English Bibles. This name signifies God's eternal presence and His unchanging nature. In the Hebrew context, invoking the name of Yahweh is a call to the God who is both transcendent and immanent, the Creator who is intimately involved with His creation. The use of "May" suggests a blessing or a prayer, indicating a desire for divine favor and intervention. This reflects the deep-seated belief in the power and sovereignty of God to bestow blessings upon His people.

bless you
The word "bless" in Hebrew is "barak," which means to kneel, as in adoration or to confer prosperity and happiness. In the biblical context, a blessing is not merely a wish for good fortune but a powerful invocation of God's favor and protection. The act of blessing is deeply rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God promises to provide, protect, and prosper those who are faithful to Him. The personal pronoun "you" indicates that this blessing is directed towards the individual or community, emphasizing the personal nature of God's care and attention.

from Zion
"Zion" refers to the hill in Jerusalem where the Temple was built, symbolizing the dwelling place of God among His people. In a broader sense, Zion represents the spiritual center of Israel's worship and the focal point of God's presence on earth. The phrase "from Zion" suggests that the blessing comes from the very heart of God's holy city, where His presence is most profoundly felt. Historically, Zion is a place of pilgrimage and worship, and it holds eschatological significance as the future site of God's eternal kingdom. This phrase underscores the belief that true blessings originate from God's presence and His chosen place of dwelling.

He who made heaven and earth
This phrase acknowledges God as the Creator of all things, affirming His supreme authority and power. The reference to "heaven and earth" encompasses the entirety of creation, highlighting God's omnipotence and the vastness of His dominion. In the Hebrew tradition, recognizing God as the Creator is foundational to understanding His ability to bless and sustain His creation. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the assurance that the One who made all things is fully capable of providing for and blessing His people. It is a call to trust in God's providential care, rooted in His creative power and eternal purpose.