Psalms 78:10

Authorized King James Version

They kept not the covenant of God, and refused to walk in his law;

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

שָׁ֭מְרוּ

H8104

They kept

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

בְּרִ֣ית

H1285

not the covenant

a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)

אֱלֹהִ֑ים

H430

of 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

וּ֝בְתוֹרָת֗וֹ

H8451

in his law

a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

מֵאֲנ֥וּ

H3985

and refused

to refuse

לָלֶֽכֶת׃

H1980

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant, 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 Historical documents from this period show treaty language and adoption practices from the ancient world, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?