What is the meaning of Psalms 34:11?

Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

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Psalms 34:11 Bible Verse Meaning

Psalms 34:11 - Understanding the Verse

"Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD."

Bible Verse Meaning

The verse calls upon the people, referred to as 'children,' to listen and learn (Matthew Henry). This invitation stresses the importance of teaching and imparting knowledge about the reverence and fear of the Lord. The speaker, presumably David, acts as a mentor to those who seek to understand and deepen their relationship with God.

Bible Verse Interpretations

This verse can be viewed as an essential instruction for living a faithful life. Fear of the Lord is often defined as recognizing His greatness and power, which leads to a life of obedience and respect (Albert Barnes). This 'fear' is not one of terror, but a profound respect and reverence for the Almighty.

Bible Verse Explanation

David appeals to the next generation, signifying that true understanding must be passed down. He emphasizes the communal aspect of learning faith and reliance on God, suggesting that the fear of the Lord is foundational for spiritual wisdom (Adam Clarke). This signifies an encouragement to all readers to value such teachings.

Insights from Commentaries

  • Matthew Henry: Emphasizes the importance of seeking God and the benefits of fearing Him. Acknowledges that children figure prominently in the teachings of wisdom and godliness.
  • Albert Barnes: Notably highlights that this fear includes understanding God's judgment and mercy. It is a call to live lives aware of God's omnipotence and expectations.
  • Adam Clarke: Stresses the mentor's role in guiding the youth towards God, affirming that earthly knowledge falls short compared to divine wisdom.

Application to Daily Life

Applying Psalms 34:11 involves recognizing the significance of teaching others about the Lord. Engaging in Bible study groups, utilizing Bible study tools, and participating in online Bible study sessions can foster a community-centric approach to this verse. Furthermore, it's a reminder for individuals to consistently learn and grow in their faith.

Cross References

  • Proverbs 1:7: "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge..." - A foundational understanding of wisdom.
  • Deuteronomy 6:7: "And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children..." - Emphasizing the importance of teaching faith.
  • Isaiah 11:2: Describing wisdom, understanding, counsel, and knowledge as gifts of the Spirit connected to the fear of the Lord.

Further Exploration

To dive deeper into the meaning of Bible verses such as this one, consider exploring:

  • How to interpret Bible verses: Engaging with contextual studies.
  • Understanding difficult Bible passages: Use commentaries and guides.
  • In-depth Bible verse analysis: Examine historical and cultural contexts.

Conclusion

Psalms 34:11 invites us to embrace the teaching of God's fear, recognizing it as a crucial component of our spiritual growth. By understanding the sentiments expressed in this verse through Bible verse commentary and group studies, we can cultivate a deeper relationship with the Lord.