Psalms 31:8

Authorized King James Version

And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a large room.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הִ֭סְגַּרְתַּנִי

H5462

And hast not shut me up

to shut up; figuratively, to surrender

בְּיַד

H3027

into the hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

אוֹיֵ֑ב

H341

of the enemy

hating; an adversary

הֶֽעֱמַ֖דְתָּ

H5975

thou hast set

to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)

בַמֶּרְחָ֣ב

H4800

in a large room

enlargement, either literally (an open space, usually in a good sense), or figuratively (liberty)

רַגְלָֽי׃

H7272

my feet

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

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

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 31 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?
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?