Psalms 139:10

Authorized King James Version

Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

גַּם

H1571

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

שָׁ֭ם

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

יָדְךָ֣

H3027

Even there shall thy hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

תַנְחֵ֑נִי

H5148

lead

to guide; by implication, to transport (into exile, or as colonists)

וְֽתֹאחֲזֵ֥נִי

H270

shall hold

to seize (often with the accessory idea of holding in possession)

יְמִינֶֽךָ׃

H3225

me and thy right hand

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

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 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 might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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 139 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?