Psalms 78:71
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 78:71
71 From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance.
Chapter Context
Psalms 78 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, righteousness, prayer. 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 21-72: Conclusion and application
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 78:71
71 From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance.
Analysis
From following the ewes great with young he brought him to feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance. This concluding verse parallels v. 52—as God guided Israel like a flock, now David guides Israel as shepherd-king. From following the ewes great with young (me'achar alot hevi'o, מֵאַחַר עָלוֹת הֵבִיאוֹ) details David's shepherd experience—caring for nursing ewes requires special tenderness and skill, qualities needed for leading God's vulnerable people.
To feed Jacob his people, and Israel his inheritance uses shepherding vocabulary for kingship. Feed (lir'ot, לִרְעוֹת) means shepherd, pasture, tend. Jacob his people and Israel his inheritance emphasize that David shepherds God's possession, not his own. The king is under-shepherd; Yahweh remains the true Shepherd-King. David's role anticipates Jesus, who feeds God's flock with true bread (John 6:35).
The psalm's conclusion answers its opening concerns—despite Israel's faithlessness, God preserves a remnant through His sovereign choice of Davidic kingship centered in Zion. This hope sustains Israel through exile and ultimately finds fulfillment in Jesus, David's heir who shepherds God's people eternally.
Historical Context
David's reign (1010-970 BC) brought Israel to its zenith—military victories, national unity, preparation for temple worship. His shepherd-heart showed in his prayer life (Psalms) and his leadership combining justice with mercy. Though imperfect, David foreshadowed Christ perfectly fulfilling the shepherd-king role.
Reflection
- How does viewing leadership as shepherding rather than dominating change your approach to influence and authority?
- What specific 'ewes great with young'—vulnerable, needy people—has God called you to tend with special care?
- In what ways does Jesus fulfill the Davidic shepherd-king role perfectly, and how should this affect your trust in His leadership?
Cross-References
- References Israel: 2 Samuel 5:2, 1 Chronicles 11:2
- Parallel theme: Psalms 28:9, Genesis 33:13, Isaiah 40:11, 1 Peter 5:2