Psalms 71:18

Authorized King James Version

Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְגַ֤ם

H1571

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

עַד

H5704

Now also when

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

זִקְנָ֨ה׀

H2209

I am old

old age

וְשֵׂיבָה֮

H7872

and grayheaded

old age

אֱלֹהִ֪ים

H430

O God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

אַֽל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

תַּעַ֫זְבֵ֥נִי

H5800

forsake

to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc

עַד

H5704

Now also when

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

אַגִּ֣יד

H5046

me not until I have shewed

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

#10

זְרוֹעֲךָ֣

H2220

thy strength

the arm (as stretched out), or (of animals) the foreleg; figuratively, force

#11

לְד֑וֹר

H1755

unto this generation

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

#12

לְכָל

H3605

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

#13

יָ֝ב֗וֹא

H935

to every one that is to come

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

#14

גְּבוּרָתֶֽךָ׃

H1369

and thy power

force (literally or figuratively); by implication, valor, victory

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 71 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?