Psalms 78:72

So he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his hands.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַ֭יִּרְעֵם

H7462

So he fed

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

כְּתֹ֣ם

H8537

them according to the integrity

completeness; figuratively, prosperity; usually (morally) innocence

לְבָב֑וֹ

H3824

of his heart

the heart (as the most interior organ)

וּבִתְבוּנ֖וֹת

H8394

them by the skilfulness

intelligence; by implication, an argument; by extension, caprice

כַּפָּ֣יו

H3709

of his hands

the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-

יַנְחֵֽם׃

H5148

and guided

to guide; by implication, to transport (into exile, or as colonists)

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?