King James Version
What Does Psalms 132:4 Mean?
“I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids,”
Psalms 132:4 · KJV
Context
2
How he sware unto the LORD, and vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob;
3
Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed ;
4
I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids,
5
Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob. an habitation: Heb. habitations
6
Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe self-denial intensifies: 'I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids.' This continues verse 3's vow using even more extreme language. The parallel phrases 'sleep to mine eyes' and 'slumber to mine eyelids' are poetic variation emphasizing refusal of rest. 'Sleep' and 'slumber' (Hebrew 'shenah' and 'tenumah') both mean rest/sleep, used together for emphasis. This is hyperbolic oath language (similar to 'may God do so and more' formulas) expressing unbreakable determination - David would rather stay awake than fail to establish God's dwelling. The verse demonstrates that passion for God's glory should exceed concern for personal comfort. This isn't literal insomnia but expressed priority - nothing (including basic needs) takes precedence over honoring God.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Such extreme oath language was common in ancient Near East to express unwavering commitment (Genesis 31:50; 1 Samuel 3:17; Ruth 1:17). The language functions rhetorically rather than literally - David didn't actually never sleep, but communicated that God's honor was his supreme priority. Similar language appears in love poetry (Song of Solomon 3:2) and political oaths.
Reflection Questions
- How does hyperbolic language (not sleeping) communicate priorities more effectively than moderate statements?
- What is the relationship between legitimate self-care and appropriate self-denial for God's glory?
- How do extreme vows/language express devotion without necessarily being literal commitments?
- What passions and priorities does this extreme language reveal about David's heart?
- In what ways might believers appropriately express that nothing takes precedence over God's honor?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsאִם1 of 6
H518used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
אֶתֵּ֣ן2 of 6
“I will not give”
H5414to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
לְעֵינָ֑י4 of 6
“to mine eyes”
H5869an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
Study Guide
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 132:4 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 132:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge