Psalms 78:1 KJV

Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth.

Previous Verse
« Psalms 77:20
Next Verse
Psalms 78:2 »

Psalms 78:1 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Psalms 78:1

Psalms 78:1 states, "Give ear, O my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth." This introductory verse serves as an invitation to the audience to listen attentively, emphasizing the importance of the message that the psalmist is about to deliver.

Contextual Overview

This psalm is commonly attributed to Asaph, one of the prominent figures in Israel’s worship and music. It is a historical psalm that recounts God's dealings with Israel, blending both instructive and reflective elements in its narrative.

The Call to Attention

The opening command, "Give ear." indicates a serious appeal for the audience to pay close attention. This is echoed in commentaries:

  • Matthew Henry: Describes this as an earnest entreaty, meant to engage the people’s focus and readiness to receive the teaching that follows.
  • Albert Barnes: Notes that the phrase signifies a genuine effort, stressing the importance of attentive listening in the reception of wisdom and instruction.
  • Adam Clarke: Points out that the psalmist is not merely asking for passive hearing but an active inclination of the ear, suggesting that understanding requires effort.

Message of Instruction

This verse lays the groundwork for the teaching that is to follow. It’s a deliberate call to reflection and learning:

  • Spiritual Instruction: Henry emphasizes that the lessons imparted here are divinely inspired, intended to nourish the faith of God's people.
  • Historical Context: Barnes highlights that the teachings often include reflections on Israel's past, serving as warnings and reminders of God’s faithfulness.
  • Learning from History: Clarke argues for the importance of learning from God’s past dealings with Israel, suggesting that there is a moral obligation to heed these lessons.

The Audience's Responsibility

By stating, "my people," the psalmist identifies the audience distinctly, reminding them that as God's chosen, they have a responsibility to be receptive to His teachings:

  • Divine Relationship: Henry underscores the special relationship between God and His people, which necessitates a response to His voice.
  • Obligation to Listen: Barnes comments that being part of God’s congregation comes with the obligation to listen and follow His counsel.
  • Active Engagement: Clarke further analyses that this call reflects the community's call to not just listen but engage actively with the message.

The Nature of the Teaching

The term "teaching" refers not only to instruction but to a deeper conveying of wisdom:

  • Transformative Power: Matthew Henry expresses that the teachings carry the potential to transform lives and foster a deeper faith in God.
  • Divine Inspiration: Albert Barnes suggests that the teaching is divinely authoritative, urging that what follows must be taken seriously.
  • Wisdom from Experience: Adam Clarke remarks on how the teachings derive from past experiences, underscoring their relevance and importance.

Conclusion and Application

The verse not only serves as an introduction but also as a reflective lens through which believers can view their relationship with God. It emphasizes:

  • The Importance of Responsiveness: The faithful must cultivate an openness to God’s word.
  • Lessons from the Past: There is immense value in revisiting and learning from biblical history as a continual guide in faith.
  • Community of Believers: There is encouragement in the shared experience of listening and learning among God’s people.

As pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars ponder this verse, it serves as a profound reminder of the need for attentive listening and the communal aspect of faith.