Psalms 38:14

Authorized King James Version

Thus I was as a man that heareth not, and in whose mouth are no reproofs.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וָאֱהִ֗י

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

כְּ֭אִישׁ

H376

Thus I was as a man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

לֹא

H3808

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

שֹׁמֵ֑עַ

H8085

that heareth

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

וְאֵ֥ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

בְּ֝פִ֗יו

H6310

not and in whose mouth

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

תּוֹכָחֽוֹת׃

H8433

are no reproofs

chastisement; figuratively (by words) correction, refutation, proof (even in defense)

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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?