Psalms 107:5

Authorized King James Version

Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

רְעֵבִ֥ים

H7457

Hungry

hungry (more or less intensely)

גַּם

H1571

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

צְמֵאִ֑ים

H6771

and thirsty

thirsty (literally or figuratively)

נַ֝פְשָׁ֗ם

H5315

their soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

בָּהֶ֥ם

תִּתְעַטָּֽף׃

H5848

fainted

to shroud, i.e., clothe (whether transitive or reflexive); hence (from the idea of darkness) to languish

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?