Psalms 91:11

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מַ֭לְאָכָיו

H4397

For he shall give his angels

a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)

יְצַוֶּה

H6680

charge

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

לָּ֑ךְ

לִ֝שְׁמָרְךָ֗

H8104

over thee to keep

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

בְּכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

דְּרָכֶֽיךָ׃

H1870

thee in all thy ways

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

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 revelation 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 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 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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?