Psalms 78:2
I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:
Original Language Analysis
אֶפְתְּחָ֣ה
I will open
H6605
אֶפְתְּחָ֣ה
I will open
Strong's:
H6605
Word #:
1 of 7
to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve
בְמָשָׁ֣ל
in a parable
H4912
בְמָשָׁ֣ל
in a parable
Strong's:
H4912
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, a pithy maxim, usually of metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem, discourse)
פִּ֑י
my mouth
H6310
פִּ֑י
my mouth
Strong's:
H6310
Word #:
3 of 7
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
אַבִּ֥יעָה
I will utter
H5042
אַבִּ֥יעָה
I will utter
Strong's:
H5042
Word #:
4 of 7
to gush forth; figuratively, to utter (good or bad words); specifically, to emit (a foul odor)
חִ֝יד֗וֹת
dark sayings
H2420
חִ֝יד֗וֹת
dark sayings
Strong's:
H2420
Word #:
5 of 7
a puzzle, hence, a trick, conundrum, sententious maxim
Cross References
Mark 4:34But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.Psalms 49:4I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp.Proverbs 1:6To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
Historical Context
Psalm 78 is a maskilim (instructional psalm) recounting Israel's history from the Exodus through the Davidic covenant. Asaph uses historical recitation as catechesis, teaching covenant children God's mighty works and Israel's repeated rebellions. This method reflects Deuteronomy 6:6-9's command to teach children diligently. Ancient Israel lacked mass literacy; oral history preserved through poetic recitation was crucial for transmitting faith.
Questions for Reflection
- How does viewing history as "parable"—revelatory teaching—change your reading of Scripture and providence?
- What "dark sayings of old" from church history or your own past illuminate present circumstances?
- In what ways did Jesus use historical examples and parables to reveal spiritual truth, and how should we follow His teaching method?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The psalmist declares "I will open my mouth in a parable" (Hebrew efhtach bemashal pi), announcing his teaching method. "Parable" (Hebrew mashal) is broader than the NT concept, including proverbs, riddles, and instructive narratives. "Dark sayings of old" (Hebrew chidot miqqedem) refers not to obscure mysteries but to profound lessons from history requiring interpretation. Matthew 13:35 quotes this verse as fulfilled in Christ's teaching, showing that Jesus's parables continue this wisdom tradition. The verse establishes that history is not mere data but revelatory teaching, requiring Spirit-illumined understanding to grasp its theological significance.