Psalms 89:34

Authorized King James Version

My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹא

H3808

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

אֲחַלֵּ֥ל

H2490

will I not break

properly, to bore, i.e., (by implication) to wound, to dissolve; figuratively, to profane (a person, place or thing), to break (one's word), to begin

בְּרִיתִ֑י

H1285

My covenant

a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)

וּמוֹצָ֥א

H4161

the thing that is gone out

a going forth, i.e., (the act) an egress, or (the place) an exit; hence, a source or product; specifically, dawn, the rising of the sun (the east), ex

שְׂ֝פָתַ֗י

H8193

of my lips

the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

אֲשַׁנֶּֽה׃

H8138

nor alter

to fold, i.e., duplicate (literally or figuratively); by implication, to transmute (transitive or intransitive)

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 covenant contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show treaty language and adoption practices from the ancient world, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 89 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding covenant in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?