Psalms 59:15

Authorized King James Version

Let them wander up and down for meat, and grudge if they be not satisfied.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֵ֭מָּה

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

יְנִוע֣וּן

H5128

Let them wander up and down

to waver, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively (as subjoined)

לֶאֱכֹ֑ל

H398

for meat

to eat (literally or figuratively)

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

לֹ֥א

H3808

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

יִ֝שְׂבְּע֗וּ

H7646

if they be not satisfied

to sate, i.e., fill to satisfaction (literally or figuratively)

וַיָּלִֽינוּ׃

H3885

and grudge

to stop (usually over night); by implication, to stay permanently; hence (in a bad sense) to be obstinate (especially in words, to complain)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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 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?