Psalms 58:5

Authorized King James Version

Which will not hearken to the voice of charmers, charming never so wisely.

Word-by-Word Analysis

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

יִ֭שְׁמַע

H8085

Which will not hearken

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

לְק֣וֹל

H6963

to the voice

a voice or sound

מְלַחֲשִׁ֑ים

H3907

of charmers

to whisper; by implication, to mumble a spell (as a magician)

חוֹבֵ֖ר

H2266

charming

to join (literally or figuratively); specifically (by means of spells) to fascinate

חֲבָרִ֣ים

H2267

a society; also a spell

מְחֻכָּֽם׃

H2449

never so wisely

to be wise (in mind, word or act)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?