King James Version
Psalms 81:13 in the King James Version says “Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways!” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 81 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways!”
Psalms 81:13 · KJV
But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me.
So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels. unto: or, to the hardness of their hearts, or, imagination
Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways!
I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand against their adversaries.
The haters of the LORD should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured for ever. submitted: or, yielded feigned obedience: Heb. lied
KJV Study — Public Domain
“that my people”
H5971a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
“had hearkened”
H8085to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
“unto me and Israel”
H3478he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
“in my ways”
H1870a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
“had walked”
H1980to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
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.
Psalms 81:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 81:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge