Psalms 78:8

Authorized King James Version

And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹ֤א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִהְי֨וּ׀

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

כַּאֲבוֹתָ֗ם

And might not be as their fathers

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

דּ֭וֹר

H1755

a generation

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

סוֹרֵ֪ר

H5637

a stubborn

to turn away, i.e., (morally) be refractory

וּמֹ֫רֶ֥ה

H4784

and rebellious

to be (causatively, make) bitter (or unpleasant); (figuratively) to rebel (or resist; causatively, to provoke)

דּ֭וֹר

H1755

a generation

properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הֵכִ֣ין

H3559

aright

properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,

#10

לִבּ֑וֹ

H3820

not their heart

the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

#11

וְלֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#12

נֶאֶמְנָ֖ה

H539

was not stedfast

properly, to build up or support; to foster as a parent or nurse; figuratively to render (or be) firm or faithful, to trust or believe, to be permanen

#13

אֶת

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

#14

אֵ֣ל

H410

with God

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

#15

רוּחֽוֹ׃

H7307

and whose spirit

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

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

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 understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 78 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?