King James Version

What Does Psalms 34:1 Mean?

Psalms 34:1 in the King James Version says “A Psalm of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. I will bless the ...” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 34 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“A Psalm of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Abimelech: or, Achish”

Psalms 34:1 · KJV

Context

1

A Psalm of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and he departed. I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Abimelech: or, Achish

2

My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad.

3

O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.

Read Psalms 34 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This acrostic psalm opens with a vow of continual praise rooted in God's deliverance (context: 1 Samuel 21:10-15). The phrase 'at all times' (Hebrew 'be-kol-eth') emphasizes unwavering praise regardless of circumstances, not just in prosperity. 'Continually' (tamid) conveys perpetual, uninterrupted worship. David's commitment to vocal praise ('in my mouth') demonstrates that worship is both an internal disposition and external expression. This verse embodies Paul's later command to 'rejoice always' (1 Thessalonians 5:16) and the pattern of heavenly worship (Revelation 4:8).

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The superscription references David's feigned madness before Achish (Abimelech is an alternate name or title). Despite the humiliating circumstances, David committed to praise, demonstrating that worship transcends favorable conditions. This psalm was likely used in Israel's thanksgiving rituals.

Reflection Questions

  1. What circumstances tempt you to withhold praise from God, and how might you cultivate 'at all times' worship?
  2. How does your public expression of praise match your private devotion?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
אֲבָרֲכָ֣ה1 of 8

“I will bless”

H1288

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

אֶת2 of 8
H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יְהוָ֣ה3 of 8

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

בְּכָל4 of 8
H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עֵ֑ת5 of 8

“at all times”

H6256

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

תָּ֝מִ֗יד6 of 8

“shall continually”

H8548

properly, continuance (as indefinite extension); but used only (attributively as adjective) constant (or adverbially, constantly); elliptically the re

תְּֽהִלָּת֥וֹ7 of 8

“his praise”

H8416

laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn

בְּפִֽי׃8 of 8

“be in my mouth”

H6310

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

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 34:1 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 34:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

1 Thessalonians 5:18Colossians 3:17Psalms 145:1-2Ephesians 5:20Psalms 71:8Psalms 71:14-15

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