Psalms 10:17

Authorized King James Version

LORD, thou hast heard the desire of the humble: thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear:

Word-by-Word Analysis

תַּאֲוַ֬ת

H8378

the desire

a longing; by implication, a delight (subjectively, satisfaction, objectively, a charm)

עֲנָוִ֣ים

H6035

of the humble

depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly)

שָׁמַ֣עְתָּ

H8085

thou hast heard

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

תָּכִ֥ין

H3559

thou wilt prepare

properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,

לִ֝בָּ֗ם

H3820

their heart

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

תַּקְשִׁ֥יב

H7181

to hear

to prick up the ears, i.e., hearken

אָזְנֶֽךָ׃

H241

thou wilt cause thine ear

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?