King James Version

What Does Psalms 144:14 Mean?

Psalms 144:14 in the King James Version says “That our oxen may be strong to labour; that there be no breaking in, nor going out; that there be no complaining in our ...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 144 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“That our oxen may be strong to labour; that there be no breaking in, nor going out; that there be no complaining in our streets. strong: Heb. able to bear burdens, or, loaden with flesh”

Psalms 144:14 · KJV

Context

12

That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace: polished: Heb. cut

13

That our garners may be full, affording all manner of store : that our sheep may bring forth thousands and ten thousands in our streets: all: Heb. from kind to kind

14

That our oxen may be strong to labour; that there be no breaking in, nor going out; that there be no complaining in our streets. strong: Heb. able to bear burdens, or, loaden with flesh

15

Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose God is the LORD.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
That our oxen may be strong to labour; that there be no breaking in, nor going out; that there be no complaining in our streets. Prayer for work capability and civic peace—no invasions, deportations, or distress. Comprehensive shalom encompasses security, justice, prosperity.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Towns faced constant threats: raids, invasions, strife. "Outcry" meant violence, injustice, mourning. David prays for comprehensive peace.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this shape intercession for your community?
  2. What are modern equivalents of "no breaking in, nor complaining"?
  3. How does shalom differ from mere absence of conflict?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 9 words
אַלּוּפֵ֗ינוּ1 of 9

“That our oxen”

H441

familiar; a friend, also gentle; and so, a chieftain (as notable, like neat cattle)

מְֽסֻבָּ֫לִ֥ים2 of 9

“may be strong to labour”

H5445

to carry (literally or figuratively), or (reflexively) be burdensome; specifically, to be gravid

אֵֽין3 of 9
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

פֶּ֭רֶץ4 of 9

“that there be no breaking in”

H6556

a break (literally or figuratively)

וְאֵ֣ין5 of 9
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

יוֹצֵ֑את6 of 9

“nor going out”

H3318

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

וְאֵ֥ין7 of 9
H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

צְ֝וָחָ֗ה8 of 9

“that there be no complaining”

H6682

a screech (of anguish)

בִּרְחֹבֹתֵֽינוּ׃9 of 9

“in our streets”

H7339

a width, i.e., (concretely) avenue or area

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 144:14 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 144:14 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Deuteronomy 28:7Zechariah 8:3-51 Samuel 31:7Isaiah 24:111 Samuel 13:17-23Jeremiah 14:2

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