Psalms 74:9

Authorized King James Version

We see not our signs: there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that knoweth how long.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֽוֹתֹתֵ֗ינוּ

H226

not our signs

a signal (literally or figuratively), as a flag, beacon, monument, omen, prodigy, evidence, etc

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

רָ֫אִ֥ינוּ

H7200

We see

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֵֽין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

ע֥וֹד

H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

נָבִ֑יא

H5030

there is no more any prophet

a prophet or (generally) inspired man

וְלֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

אִ֝תָּ֗נוּ

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

יֹדֵ֥עַ

H3045

neither is there among us any that knoweth

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

#10

עַד

H5704

how long

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

#11

מָֽה׃

H4100

properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and

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

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 practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
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?