Psalms 94:9

Authorized King James Version

He that planted the ear, shall he not hear? he that formed the eye, shall he not see?

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֲנֹ֣טַֽע

H5193

He that planted

properly, to strike in, i.e., fix; specifically, to plant (literally or figuratively)

אֹ֭זֶן

H241

the ear

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

הֲלֹ֣א

H3808

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

יִשְׁמָ֑ע

H8085

shall he not hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

אִֽם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

יֹ֥צֵֽר

H3335

he that formed

to mould into a form; especially as a potter; figuratively, to determine (i.e., form a resolution)

עַ֝֗יִן

H5869

the eye

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

הֲלֹ֣א

H3808

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

יַבִּֽיט׃

H5027

shall he not see

to scan, i.e., look intently at; by implication, to regard with pleasure, favor or care

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 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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?