Psalms 132:4
I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids,
Original Language Analysis
אִם
H518
אִם
Strong's:
H518
Word #:
1 of 6
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
אֶתֵּ֣ן
I will not give
H5414
אֶתֵּ֣ן
I will not give
Strong's:
H5414
Word #:
2 of 6
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
לְעֵינָ֑י
to mine eyes
H5869
לְעֵינָ֑י
to mine eyes
Strong's:
H5869
Word #:
4 of 6
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
Historical Context
Such extreme oath language was common in ancient Near East to express unwavering commitment (Genesis 31:50; 1 Samuel 3:17; Ruth 1:17). The language functions rhetorically rather than literally - David didn't actually never sleep, but communicated that God's honor was his supreme priority. Similar language appears in love poetry (Song of Solomon 3:2) and political oaths.
Questions for Reflection
- How does hyperbolic language (not sleeping) communicate priorities more effectively than moderate statements?
- What is the relationship between legitimate self-care and appropriate self-denial for God's glory?
- How do extreme vows/language express devotion without necessarily being literal commitments?
- What passions and priorities does this extreme language reveal about David's heart?
- In what ways might believers appropriately express that nothing takes precedence over God's honor?
Analysis & Commentary
The self-denial intensifies: 'I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids.' This continues verse 3's vow using even more extreme language. The parallel phrases 'sleep to mine eyes' and 'slumber to mine eyelids' are poetic variation emphasizing refusal of rest. 'Sleep' and 'slumber' (Hebrew 'shenah' and 'tenumah') both mean rest/sleep, used together for emphasis. This is hyperbolic oath language (similar to 'may God do so and more' formulas) expressing unbreakable determination - David would rather stay awake than fail to establish God's dwelling. The verse demonstrates that passion for God's glory should exceed concern for personal comfort. This isn't literal insomnia but expressed priority - nothing (including basic needs) takes precedence over honoring God.