Psalms 95:10

Authorized King James Version

Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַרְבָּ֘עִ֤ים
Forty
forty
#2
שָׁנָ֨ה׀
years
a year (as a revolution of time)
#3
אָ֘ק֤וּט
long was I grieved
properly, to cut off, i.e., (figuratively) detest
#4
בְּד֗וֹר
with this generation
properly, a revolution of time, i.e., an age or generation; also a dwelling
#5
וָאֹמַ֗ר
and said
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
עַ֤ם
It is a people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#7
תֹּעֵ֣י
that do err
to vacillate, i.e., reel or stray (literally or figuratively); also causative of both
#8
לֵבָ֣ב
in their heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#9
הֵ֑ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#10
וְ֝הֵ֗ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#11
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#12
יָדְע֥וּ
and they have not known
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#13
דְרָכָֽי׃
my 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 covenant community 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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection