Psalms 50:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 50:12
12 If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof.
Chapter Context
Psalms 50 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of redemption, covenant, sacrifice. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 50:12
12 If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof.
Analysis
The reductio ad absurdum: 'If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof.' The hypothetical is absurd--God is not hungry. But even if He were, He wouldn't depend on humans. The whole world belongs to Him; all its fullness is at His disposal.
Historical Context
This verse directly contradicts pagan feeding-the-gods theology. Yahweh cannot be manipulated by offering what He doesn't need from a world He entirely owns.
Reflection
- Why does God pose the hypothetical of being hungry?
- How does divine self-sufficiency transform our understanding of worship?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 19:5, Deuteronomy 10:14, Job 41:11