King James Version
What Does Psalms 105:15 Mean?
“Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.”
Context
13
When they went from one nation to another, from one kingdom to another people;
14
He suffered no man to do them wrong: yea, he reproved kings for their sakes;
15
Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.
16
Moreover he called for a famine upon the land: he brake the whole staff of bread.
17
He sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant:
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(15) **Anointed.**—In the plural, “my anointed ones.” As referring to the patriarchs, the expression is not technical, since they were never, like priests, prophets, and kings in later times, actually *anointed. *But the terms being sometimes applied to the covenant people as a whole (see Psalm 89:38; Psalm 89:51), its application to the founders of the race, especially those to whom the “promises came,” is very just.
As to the term “prophet,” the poet found it expressly conferred on Abraham in Genesis 20:7.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Psalms 105:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 105:15
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge