Psalms 37:8

Authorized King James Version

Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֶ֣רֶף

H7503

Cease

to slacken (in many applications, literal or figurative)

מֵ֭אַף

H639

from anger

properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

וַעֲזֹ֣ב

H5800

and forsake

to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc

חֵמָ֑ה

H2534

wrath

heat; figuratively, anger, poison (from its fever)

אַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

תִּ֝תְחַ֗ר

H2734

fret

to glow or grow warm; figuratively (usually) to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy

אַךְ

H389

not thyself in any wise

a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only

לְהָרֵֽעַ׃

H7489

to do evil

properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)

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

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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 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?
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?