Psalms 50:11

I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יָ֭דַעְתִּי

H3045

I know

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

כָּל

H3605

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

ע֣וֹף

H5775

all the fowls

a bird (as covered with feathers, or rather as covering with wings), often collectively

הָרִ֑ים

H2022

of the mountains

a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)

וְזִ֥יז

H2123

and the wild beasts

fulness of the breast

שָׂ֝דַ֗י

H7704

of the field

a field (as flat)

עִמָּדִֽי׃

H5978

are mine

along with

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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 practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
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?