Psalms 19:14

Authorized King James Version

Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִֽהְי֥וּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

לְרָצ֨וֹן׀

H7522

be acceptable

delight (especially as shown)

אִמְרֵי

H561

Let the words

something said

פִ֡י

H6310

of my mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

וְהֶגְי֣וֹן

H1902

and the meditation

a murmuring sound, i.e., a musical notation (probably similar to the modern affettuoso to indicate solemnity of movement); by implication, a machinati

לִבִּ֣י

H3820

of my heart

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

לְפָנֶ֑יךָ

H6440

in thy sight

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

יְ֝הוָ֗ה

H3068

O LORD

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

צוּרִ֥י

H6697

my strength

properly, a cliff (or sharp rock, as compressed); generally, a rock or boulder; figuratively, a refuge; also an edge (as precipitous)

#10

וְגֹאֲלִֽי׃

H1350

and my redeemer

to redeem (according to the middle eastern law of kinship), i.e., to be the next of kin (and as such to buy back a relative's property, marry his wido

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 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?