Psalms 78:21

Authorized King James Version

Therefore the LORD heard this, and was wroth: so a fire was kindled against Jacob, and anger also came up against Israel;

Word-by-Word Analysis

לָכֵ֤ן׀

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

שָׁמַ֥ע

H8085

heard

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

יְהוָ֗ה

H3068

Therefore the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וַֽיִּתְעַבָּ֥ר

H5674

this and was wroth

to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in

וְ֭אֵשׁ

H784

so a fire

fire (literally or figuratively)

נִשְּׂקָ֣ה

H5400

was kindled

to catch fire

בְיַעֲקֹ֑ב

H3290

against Jacob

jaakob, the israelitish patriarch

וְגַם

H1571

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

אַ֝֗ף

H639

and anger

properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

#10

עָלָ֥ה

H5927

also came up

to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative

#11

בְיִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃

H3478

against Israel

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

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

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 78 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?