Psalms 37:36

Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַ֭יַּֽעֲבֹר

H5674

Yet he passed away

to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in

וְהִנֵּ֣ה

H2009

lo!

אֵינֶ֑נּוּ

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

וָֽ֝אֲבַקְשֵׁ֗הוּ

H1245

and lo he was not yea I sought

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

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

נִמְצָֽא׃

H4672

him but he could not be found

properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?