Psalms 34:20

Authorized King James Version

He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שֹׁמֵ֥ר

H8104

He keepeth

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עַצְמוֹתָ֑יו

H6106

all his bones

a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e., (as pron.) selfsame

אַחַ֥ת

H259

not one

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

מֵ֝הֵ֗נָּה

H2007

of them

themselves (often used emphatic for the copula, also in indirect relation)

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

נִשְׁבָּֽרָה׃

H7665

is broken

to burst (literally or figuratively)

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 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

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 34 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?