Psalms 78:30
They were not estranged from their lust. But while their meat was yet in their mouths,
Original Language Analysis
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 6
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
זָר֥וּ
They were not estranged
H2114
זָר֥וּ
They were not estranged
Strong's:
H2114
Word #:
2 of 6
to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery
מִתַּאֲוָתָ֑ם
from their lust
H8378
מִתַּאֲוָתָ֑ם
from their lust
Strong's:
H8378
Word #:
3 of 6
a longing; by implication, a delight (subjectively, satisfaction, objectively, a charm)
Historical Context
Numbers 11:33 records: 'While the meat was still between their teeth, before it was consumed, the anger of the LORD was kindled.' The plague struck during the feast, turning celebration into catastrophe. This sudden reversal demonstrates how quickly blessing becomes curse when pursued idolatrously.
Questions for Reflection
- What appetite has enslaved you so completely that 'satisfaction' only increases craving?
- How does the instantaneous nature of this judgment challenge modern Christianity's 'health and wealth' gospel?
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Analysis & Commentary
They were not estranged from their lust. But while their meat was yet in their mouths—the phrase lō'-zārû mi-ta'ăwātām (not estranged from their lust) means they never turned away from their craving; satisfaction only fueled appetite. The horrific timing—'while their meat was yet in their mouths'—shows judgment overtaking indulgence mid-bite.
This instant transition from gratification to judgment parallels the rich man who feasted sumptuously while Lazarus starved (Luke 16:19-25). Death came 'in the midst of feasting' like Belshazzar's banquet interrupted by handwriting on the wall (Daniel 5:5). James 5:5 warns the wealthy: 'You have lived on the earth in luxury... You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter.' Gratification without godliness courts disaster.