Psalms 83:1

Keep not thou silence, O God: hold not thy peace, and be not still, O God.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֱלֹהִ֥ים

H430

O God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

אַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

דֳּמִי

H1824

Keep not thou silence

quiet

לָ֑ךְ

אַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

תֶּחֱרַ֖שׁ

H2790

hold not thy peace

to scratch, i.e., (by implication) to engrave, plough; hence (from the use of tools) to fabricate (of any material); figuratively, to devise (in a bad

וְאַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

תִּשְׁקֹ֣ט

H8252

and be not still

to repose (usually figurative)

אֵֽל׃

H410

O God

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

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of peace reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 peace in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
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?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 83 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?