Psalms 34:14

Authorized King James Version

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ס֣וּר

H5493

Depart

to turn off (literally or figuratively)

מֵ֭רָע

H7451

from evil

bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

וַעֲשֵׂה

H6213

and do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

ט֑וֹב

H2896

good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

בַּקֵּ֖שׁ

H1245

seek

to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after

שָׁל֣וֹם

H7965

peace

safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace

וְרָדְפֵֽהוּ׃

H7291

and pursue

to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)

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 peace 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 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 peace in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of peace differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on peace address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?