Psalms 65:2

Authorized King James Version

O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all flesh come.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שֹׁמֵ֥עַ

H8085

O thou that hearest

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

תְּפִלָּ֑ה

H8605

prayer

intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn

עָ֝דֶ֗יךָ

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

כָּל

H3605

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

בָּשָׂ֥ר

H1320

unto thee shall all flesh

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

יָבֹֽאוּ׃

H935

come

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

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

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

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 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?