Psalms 121:4

Authorized King James Version

Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הִנֵּ֣ה

H2009

lo!

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָ֭נוּם

H5123

shall neither slumber

to slumber (from drowsiness)

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִישָׁ֑ן

H3462

nor sleep

properly, to be slack or languid, i.e., (by implication) sleep (figuratively, to die); also to grow old, stale or inveterate

שׁ֝וֹמֵ֗ר

H8104

Behold he that keepeth

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

H3478

Israel

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 121 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?