Psalms 34:22

Authorized King James Version

The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.

Word-by-Word Analysis

פּוֹדֶ֣ה

H6299

redeemeth

to sever, i.e., ransom; generally to release, preserve

יְ֭הוָה

H3068

The LORD

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

נֶ֣פֶשׁ

H5315

the soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

עֲבָדָ֑יו

H5650

of his servants

a servant

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

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

יֶ֝אְשְׁמ֗וּ

H816

in him shall be desolate

to be guilty; by implication to be punished or perish

כָּֽל

H3605

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

הַחֹסִ֥ים

H2620

and none of them that trust

to flee for protection; figuratively, to confide in

בּֽוֹ׃

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. 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

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 34 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?