Psalms 142:4

Authorized King James Version

I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הַבֵּ֤יט

H5027

I looked

to scan, i.e., look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care

יָמִ֨ין׀

H3225

on my right hand

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

וּרְאֵה֮

H7200

and beheld

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

וְאֵֽין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

לִ֪י

מַ֫כִּ֥יר

H5234

but there was no man that would know

properly, to scrutinize, i.e., look intently at; hence (with recognition implied), to acknowledge, be acquainted with, care for, respect, revere, or (

אָבַ֣ד

failed

properly, to wander away, i.e., lose oneself; by implication to perish (causative, destroy)

מָנ֣וֹס

H4498

me refuge

a retreat (literally or figuratively); abstractly, a fleeing

מִמֶּ֑נִּי

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

#10

אֵ֖ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

#11

דּוֹרֵ֣שׁ

H1875

me no man cared

properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow (for pursuit or search); by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship

#12

לְנַפְשִֽׁי׃

H5315

for my soul

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. 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 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 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?
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?