Psalms 25:12

What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מִי

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

זֶ֣ה

H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

הָ֭אִישׁ

H376

What man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

יְרֵ֣א

H3373

is he that feareth

fearing; morally, reverent

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

the LORD

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

י֝וֹרֶ֗נּוּ

H3384

him shall he teach

properly, to flow as water (i.e., to rain); transitively, to lay or throw (especially an arrow, i.e., to shoot); figuratively, to point out (as if by

בְּדֶ֣רֶךְ

H1870

in the way

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

יִבְחָֽר׃

H977

that he shall choose

properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select

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 sovereignty 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 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

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 25 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?