Psalms 105:31

Authorized King James Version

He spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, and lice in all their coasts.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָ֭מַר
He spake
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
וַיָּבֹ֣א
and there came
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#3
עָרֹ֑ב
divers sorts of flies
a mosquito (from its swarming)
#4
כִּ֝נִּ֗ים
and lice
a gnat
#5
בְּכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
גְּבוּלָֽם׃
in all their coasts
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed

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 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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection