Psalms 34:11

Authorized King James Version

Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְֽכוּ

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

בָ֭נִים

H1121

ye children

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

שִׁמְעוּ

H8085

hearken

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

לִ֑י

יִֽרְאַ֥ת

H3374

you the fear

fear (also used as infinitive); morally, reverence

יְ֝הוָ֗ה

H3068

of the LORD

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

אֲלַמֶּדְכֶֽם׃

H3925

unto me I will teach

properly, to goad, i.e., (by implication) to teach (the rod being an middle eastern incentive)

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 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?