Psalms 77:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 77:12
12 I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.
Chapter Context
Psalms 77 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of holiness, sacrifice, obedience. 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
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 77:12
12 I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.
Analysis
I will meditate also of all thy work (וְהָגִיתִי בְכָל־פָעֳלֶךָ). Hagah (הָגָה) means to meditate, muse, ponder deeply—often with the connotation of verbal repetition (Psalms 1:2, 119:15). Po'al (פֹּעַל) means work, deed, or action. The psalmist commits to contemplating the totality of God's historical acts. This verse parallels verse 11 but adds the dimension of verbal reflection.
And talk of thy doings (וּבַעֲלִילוֹתֶיךָ אָשִׂיחָה). Siach (שִׂיחַ) appears again (vv.3, 6)—but now directed not inward in complaint but outward in testimony. Alilah (עֲלִילָה) means deeds, acts, or works (often mighty acts). The movement is significant: from troubled meditation (v.3) to redemptive proclamation. Memory becomes testimony; private wrestling becomes public witness. This anticipates the psalm's climactic recital of the exodus (vv.13-20).
Historical Context
Biblical meditation differs from Eastern mysticism—it is not emptying the mind but filling it with God's revealed acts and words. The imperative to 'talk' (declare, recount) God's works runs throughout Scripture: "We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD" (Psalm 78:4). Christian preaching and testimony continue this pattern—proclaiming what God has done in history (Acts 2:22-36).
Reflection
- How does deliberate meditation on God's works move us from complaint to confidence?
- What is the relationship between private meditation and public testimony about God's deeds?
- How can you practice <em>hagah</em> (deep meditation) on God's acts in Christ this week?