Psalms 74:16

The day is thine, the night also is thine: thou hast prepared the light and the sun.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְךָ֣

י֭וֹם

H3117

The day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

אַף

H637

meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though

לְךָ֥

לָ֑יְלָה

H3915

is thine the night

properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity

אַתָּ֥ה

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

הֲ֝כִינ֗וֹתָ

H3559

also is thine thou hast prepared

properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,

מָא֥וֹר

H3974

the light

properly, a luminous body or luminary, i.e., (abstractly) light (as an element); figuratively, brightness, i.e.,cheerfulness; specifically, a chandeli

וָשָֽׁמֶשׁ׃

H8121

and the sun

the sun; by implication, the east; figuratively, a ray, i.e., (architectural) a notched battlement

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?