Psalms 32:8

Authorized King James Version

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַשְׂכִּֽילְךָ֙׀
I will instruct
to be (causatively, make or act) circumspect and hence, intelligent
#2
וְֽאוֹרְךָ֗
thee and 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
#3
בְּדֶֽרֶךְ
thee in the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#4
ז֥וּ
which
this or that
#5
תֵלֵ֑ךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#6
אִֽיעֲצָ֖ה
I will guide
to advise; reflexively, to deliberate or resolve
#7
עָלֶ֣יךָ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
עֵינִֽי׃
thee with mine eye
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

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 revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 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