Psalms 38:13

Authorized King James Version

But I, as a deaf man, heard not; and I was as a dumb man that openeth not his mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַאֲנִ֣י

H589

כְ֭חֵרֵשׁ

H2795

But I as a deaf

deaf (whether literally or spiritual)

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

אֶשְׁמָ֑ע

H8085

man heard

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

וּ֝כְאִלֵּ֗ם

H483

not and I was as a dumb man

speechless

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

יִפְתַּח

H6605

that openeth

to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve

פִּֽיו׃

H6310

not his mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?