Psalms 105:15

Authorized King James Version

Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַֽל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תִּגְּע֥וּ
Saying Touch
properly, to touch, i.e., lay the hand upon (for any purpose; euphemistically, to lie with a woman); by implication, to reach (figuratively, to arrive
#3
בִמְשִׁיחָ֑י
not mine anointed
anointed; usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint); specifically, the messiah
#4
וְ֝לִנְבִיאַי
and do my prophets
a prophet or (generally) inspired man
#5
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#6
תָּרֵֽעוּ׃
no harm
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection