King James Version
What Does Psalms 44:17 Mean?
“All this is come upon us; yet have we not forgotten thee, neither have we dealt falsely in thy covenant.”
Psalms 44:17 · KJV
Context
15
My confusion is continually before me, and the shame of my face hath covered me,
16
For the voice of him that reproacheth and blasphemeth; by reason of the enemy and avenger.
17
All this is come upon us; yet have we not forgotten thee, neither have we dealt falsely in thy covenant.
18
Our heart is not turned back, neither have our steps declined from thy way; steps: or, goings
19
Though thou hast sore broken us in the place of dragons, and covered us with the shadow of death.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryThe remarkable claim: 'All this is come upon us; yet have we not forgotten thee, neither have we dealt falsely in thy covenant.' Despite overwhelming suffering, the community maintains covenant loyalty. They have neither forgotten God (mental abandonment) nor violated covenant terms (behavioral abandonment). This creates the theological crisis.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
The psalmist echoes Job's protest--suffering has come despite faithfulness. This challenges retribution theology that assumes suffering proves sin, forcing deeper theological reflection.
Reflection Questions
- How can we claim faithfulness to God while experiencing apparent abandonment?
- What does maintaining covenant in suffering reveal about the nature of true faith?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 8 wordsכָּל1 of 8
H3605properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
וְלֹ֣א4 of 8
H3808not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
שְׁכַחֲנ֑וּךָ5 of 8
“upon us yet have we not forgotten”
H7911to mislay, i.e., to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention
וְלֹֽא6 of 8
H3808not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
שִׁ֝קַּ֗רְנוּ7 of 8
“thee neither have we dealt falsely”
H8266to cheat, i.e., be untrue (usually in words)
בִּבְרִיתֶֽךָ׃8 of 8
“in thy covenant”
H1285a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
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 44:17 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 44:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge