Psalms 17:12

Authorized King James Version

Like as a lion that is greedy of his prey, and as it were a young lion lurking in secret places.

Word-by-Word Analysis

דִּמְיֹנ֗וֹ

H1825

resemblance

כְּ֭אַרְיֵה

H738

as a lion

a lion

יִכְס֣וֹף

H3700

that is greedy

properly, to become pale, i.e., (by implication) to pine after; also to fear

לִטְר֑וֹף

H2963

of his prey

to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)

וְ֝כִכְפִ֗יר

H3715

and as it were a young lion

a village (as covered in by walls); also a young lion (perhaps as covered with a mane)

יֹשֵׁ֥ב

H3427

lurking

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בְּמִסְתָּרִֽים׃

H4565

in secret places

properly, a concealer, i.e., a covert

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 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?
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 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?