Psalms 16:5

Authorized King James Version

The LORD is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup: thou maintainest my lot.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יְֽהוָ֗ה

H3068

The LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

מְנָת

H4490

is the portion

properly, something weighed out, i.e., (generally) a division; specifically (of food) a ration; also a lot

חֶלְקִ֥י

H2506

of mine inheritance

properly, smoothness (of the tongue)

וְכוֹסִ֑י

H3563

and of my cup

a cup (as a container), often figuratively, some unclean bird, probably an owl (perhaps from the cup-like cavity of its eye)

אַ֝תָּ֗ה

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

תּוֹמִ֥יךְ

H8551

thou maintainest

to sustain; by implication, to obtain, keep fast; figuratively, to help, follow close

גּוֹרָלִֽי׃

H1486

my lot

properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 16 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?