Psalms 25:15

Authorized King James Version

Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net.

Word-by-Word Analysis

עֵינַ֣י

H5869

Mine eyes

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

תָּ֭מִיד

H8548

are ever

properly, continuance (as indefinite extension); but used only (attributively as adjective) constant (or adverbially, constantly); elliptically the re

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

toward the LORD

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

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

הֽוּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

יוֹצִ֖יא

H3318

for he shall pluck

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

מֵרֶ֣שֶׁת

H7568

out of the net

a net (as catching animals)

רַגְלָֽי׃

H7272

my feet

a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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?
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?
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?