Psalms 111:5
He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.
Original Language Analysis
טֶ֭רֶף
meat
H2964
טֶ֭רֶף
meat
Strong's:
H2964
Word #:
1 of 6
something torn, i.e., a fragment, e.g., a fresh leaf, prey, food
נָתַ֣ן
He hath given
H5414
נָתַ֣ן
He hath given
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
2 of 6
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
יִזְכֹּ֖ר
be mindful
H2142
יִזְכֹּ֖ר
be mindful
Strong's:
H2142
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
Cross References
Psalms 105:8He hath remembered his covenant for ever, the word which he commanded to a thousand generations.Daniel 9:4And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments;
Historical Context
God's provision for Israel: manna and quail in wilderness (Exodus 16, Numbers 11), water from rock (Exodus 17), multiplication of widow's oil (1 Kings 17), feeding 5000 and 4000 (Matthew 14, 15), Paul's contentment in all circumstances (Philippians 4:11-13). Covenant remembrance assured Israel that despite exile and suffering, God wouldn't abandon them (Leviticus 26:44-45, Jeremiah 31:31-34). Jesus established new covenant in His blood (Luke 22:20), guaranteeing eternal inheritance.
Questions for Reflection
- How has God provided "food" (physical and spiritual sustenance) for you as one who fears Him?
- What does it mean that God "remembers His covenant forever," and how does this provide security?
- How should covenant confidence affect anxiety about provision?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Teref natan lirei'av, yizkor le'olam berito (Food He has given to those who fear Him, He remembers His covenant forever). Tereph (food/prey) indicates provision. Natan (give); yare (fear) means reverential awe. Zakar (remember); berith (covenant). God provides for those who fear Him and never forgets covenant obligations. This echoes manna in wilderness, daily bread petitions (Matthew 6:11), and divine providence generally. God's covenant faithfulness guarantees provision for His people.