Psalms 69:11

Authorized King James Version

I made sackcloth also my garment; and I became a proverb to them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וָאֶתְּנָ֣ה

H5414

I made

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

לְבוּשִׁ֣י

H3830

also my garment

a garment (literally or figuratively); by implication (euphemistically) a wife

שָׂ֑ק

H8242

sackcloth

properly, a mesh (as allowing a liquid to run through), i.e., coarse loose cloth or sacking (used in mourning and for bagging); hence, a bag (for grai

וָאֱהִ֖י

H1961

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

לָהֶ֣ם

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

לְמָשָֽׁל׃

H4912

and I became a proverb

properly, a pithy maxim, usually of metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem, discourse)

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

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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?