King James Version
What Does Psalms 78:2 Mean?
“I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:”
Context
1
Maschil of Asaph. Give ear, O my people, to my law: incline your ears to the words of my mouth. Maschil: or, A Psalm for Asaph to give instruction
2
I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old:
3
Which we have heard and known, and our fathers have told us.
4
We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2, 3) **I will open.**—A difficulty is started by the fact that the psalm deals with history, and is neither a proverb (*māshal*) nor riddle (*chîdah*)*. *But the Divine rejection of the northern tribes may be the covert meaning which the poet sees to have been wrapped up in all the ancient history. The word *māshal *is also sometimes used in a wide, vague sense, embracing prophetic as well as proverbial poetry. (See Numbers 21:27.)
For “dark sayings,” literally, *knotty points, *see Numbers 12:8. In Habakkuk 2:6 the word seems to mean a *sarcasm.*
For the use of this passage in Matthew 13:35, see Note, *New Testament Commentary.*
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 78:2 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 78:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge