Psalms 74:14

Authorized King James Version

Thou brakest the heads of leviathan in pieces, and gavest him to be meat to the people inhabiting the wilderness.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אַתָּ֣ה

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

רִ֭צַּצְתָּ

H7533

Thou brakest

to crack in pieces, literally or figuratively

רָאשֵׁ֣י

H7218

the heads

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

לִוְיָתָ֑ן

H3882

of leviathan

a wreathed animal, i.e., a large sea-monster; figuratively, the constellation of the dragon; also as a symbol of babylon

תִּתְּנֶ֥נּוּ

H5414

in pieces and gavest

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

מַ֝אֲכָ֗ל

H3978

him to be meat

an eatable (including provender, flesh and fruit)

לְעָ֣ם

H5971

to the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

לְצִיִּֽים׃

H6728

inhabiting the wilderness

a desert-dweller, i.e., nomad or wild beast

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 covenant community 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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

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 covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?