Psalms 78:68

Authorized King James Version

But chose the tribe of Judah, the mount Zion which he loved.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַ֭יִּבְחַר
H977
But chose
properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select
#2
אֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
שֵׁ֣בֶט
H7626
the tribe
a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan
#4
יְהוּדָ֑ה
H3063
of Judah
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
#5
אֶֽת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
הַ֥ר
H2022
the mount
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#7
צִ֝יּ֗וֹן
H6726
Zion
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
#8
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
H834
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#9
אָהֵֽב׃
H157
which he loved
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to Psalms. The concept of love reflects the development of divine love within biblical theology. The emotional and relational language employed here is characteristic of worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, emphasizing the personal nature of divine-human relationship. The original language emphasizes agape in Greek contexts or hesed in Hebrew, indicating covenantal loyalty, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 divine love particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection