Psalms 34:2

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

My soul {H5315} shall make her boast {H1984} in the LORD {H3068}: the humble {H6035} shall hear {H8085} thereof, and be glad {H8055}.

When I boast, it will be about ADONAI; the humble will hear of it and be glad.

My soul boasts in the LORD; let the oppressed hear and rejoice.

My soul shall make her boast in Jehovah: The meek shall hear thereof, and be glad.

Commentary

Psalms 34:2 (KJV): "My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear [thereof], and be glad."

Context of Psalms 34:2

Psalm 34 is a profound psalm of thanksgiving and testimony attributed to King David. The superscription, though not part of the verse itself, indicates it was written after David feigned madness before Abimelech (also known as Achish) and was subsequently driven away (1 Samuel 21:10-15). This psalm, therefore, emerges from a place of personal deliverance and profound gratitude. David, having experienced God's rescue from a perilous situation, declares his intention to continually praise the Lord and invites others to join in this celebration of God's goodness.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Boasting in the LORD: The central declaration of this verse is David's resolve to "boast in the LORD." This is not an arrogant, self-centered boast, but an exultant proclamation of God's greatness, power, and faithfulness. It's a redirecting of all glory and praise away from self and towards the Almighty. This theme resonates throughout scripture, reminding believers to find their confidence and identity in God alone (as emphasized by Paul in 1 Corinthians 1:31).
  • The Humble Hear and Rejoice: The verse highlights the receptive audience: "the humble shall hear [thereof], and be glad." Those who are humble in spirit, recognizing their dependence on God and their own limitations, are precisely the ones who will truly appreciate and be encouraged by David's testimony. Their hearts are open to God's truth and His works, leading to genuine joy and gladness. This contrasts sharply with the proud, who might dismiss such a testimony.
  • Shared Joy and Encouragement: David's personal experience of deliverance and praise is not kept private but is intended to be shared, creating a ripple effect of joy among the community of faith. His testimony serves as an encouragement, affirming God's active involvement and benevolence in the lives of those who trust Him.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "boast" is halal (ื”ึธืœึทืœ), which is the root of "hallelujah" (Praise the Lord). It carries the sense of shining, making a show, glorifying, or praising exuberantly. It implies an outward, joyful declaration. The word for "humble" is anavim (ืขึฒื ึธื•ึดื™ื), referring to the afflicted, meek, or lowly. These are individuals who are not self-sufficient or proud but are dependent on God and open to His teaching and intervention. God's grace and favor often rest upon such hearts (Proverbs 3:34).

Practical Application

Psalms 34:2 offers timeless wisdom for believers today. It encourages us to:

  • Shift Our Focus: Instead of boasting in personal achievements, possessions, or status, we are called to boast in the Lord โ€“ in His character, His works, and His faithfulness. This reorients our perspective and fosters true humility.
  • Share Our Testimony: Our personal experiences of God's goodness and deliverance are not just for us. Like David, we are encouraged to share them, knowing that our testimony can inspire hope and joy in others, particularly those who are humble and seeking God.
  • Cultivate a Receptive Heart: The verse reminds us of the blessing that comes to those with humble hearts. When we approach God and the testimonies of His people with humility, we are open to receiving encouragement, wisdom, and genuine gladness, recognizing that the joy of the Lord is our strength.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Jeremiah 9:24 (14 votes)

    But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these [things] I delight, saith the LORD.

  • 1 Corinthians 1:31 (10 votes)

    That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

  • Psalms 119:74 (9 votes)

    ยถ They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word.

  • Psalms 44:8 (9 votes)

    In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.

  • Psalms 22:22 (5 votes)

    ยถ I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.

  • Psalms 22:24 (5 votes)

    For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.

  • Isaiah 45:25 (5 votes)

    In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory.