Psalms 78:33

Authorized King James Version

Therefore their days did he consume in vanity, and their years in trouble.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְכַל
did he consume
to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)
#2
בַּהֶ֥בֶל
in vanity
emptiness or vanity; figuratively, something transitory and unsatisfactory; often used as an adverb
#3
יְמֵיהֶ֑ם
Therefore their days
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
#4
וּ֝שְׁנוֹתָ֗ם
and their years
a year (as a revolution of time)
#5
בַּבֶּהָלָֽה׃
in trouble
panic, destruction

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection