Psalms 78:71 - from following the ewes that have their young, he brought him to be the shepherd of Jacob, his people, and Israel, his inheritance.
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What does "Psalms 78:71" mean?
Psalm 78:71, "From following the ewes that have their young, he brought him to be the shepherd of Jacob, his people, and Israel, his inheritance," is a metaphorical description of God's selection of David as king. Let's break it down:
"From following the ewes that have their young...": This refers to David's humble beginnings. He was a shepherd, tending to sheep, specifically the ewes (female sheep) and their vulnerable lambs. This highlights a simple, pastoral life, far removed from the power and prestige of a king. The image of caring for young ewes suggests a nurturing, protective, and responsible character.
"...he brought him to be the shepherd of Jacob, his people, and Israel, his inheritance.": "He" refers to God. God took David from this humble, everyday occupation and elevated him to a position of great responsibility: to be the shepherd (leader) of God's chosen people, "Jacob" (another name for Israel). "His inheritance" emphasizes the special relationship between God and Israel; they are His treasured possession.
Meaning and Significance:
Divine Selection: The verse emphasizes that David's kingship was not self-appointed or earned through worldly ambition. It was God who chose him, lifting him from obscurity to leadership.
Shepherding Metaphor: The "shepherd" metaphor is crucial. It paints a picture of a leader who cares for, protects, and guides his people, much like a shepherd tends to his flock. It suggests a compassionate and responsible leadership style, not one of tyranny or self-service.
God's Sovereignty: The verse underscores God's sovereignty and his active role in the lives of his people. He can choose whomever He wills, regardless of their background, and use them to fulfill His purposes.
David's Character: While God's choice is paramount, the verse also hints at the qualities that might have made David suitable for leadership. His experience as a shepherd, caring for vulnerable creatures, likely developed traits like responsibility, courage, and compassion. These traits would be essential for ruling a nation.
In essence, Psalm 78:71 is a testament to God's ability to choose and elevate individuals from humble backgrounds to positions of great importance, entrusting them with the care and leadership of His people. It emphasizes the importance of compassionate and responsible leadership, mirroring the care of a shepherd for his flock.
Psalms 78:71 - from following the ewes that have their young, he brought him to be the shepherd of Jacob, his people, and Israel, his inheritance.
What does "Psalms 78:71" mean?
Psalm 78:71, "From following the ewes that have their young, he brought him to be the shepherd of Jacob, his people, and Israel, his inheritance," is a metaphorical description of God's selection of David as king. Let's break it down:
"From following the ewes that have their young...": This refers to David's humble beginnings. He was a shepherd, tending to sheep, specifically the ewes (female sheep) and their vulnerable lambs. This highlights a simple, pastoral life, far removed from the power and prestige of a king. The image of caring for young ewes suggests a nurturing, protective, and responsible character.
"...he brought him to be the shepherd of Jacob, his people, and Israel, his inheritance.": "He" refers to God. God took David from this humble, everyday occupation and elevated him to a position of great responsibility: to be the shepherd (leader) of God's chosen people, "Jacob" (another name for Israel). "His inheritance" emphasizes the special relationship between God and Israel; they are His treasured possession.
Meaning and Significance:
Divine Selection: The verse emphasizes that David's kingship was not self-appointed or earned through worldly ambition. It was God who chose him, lifting him from obscurity to leadership.
Shepherding Metaphor: The "shepherd" metaphor is crucial. It paints a picture of a leader who cares for, protects, and guides his people, much like a shepherd tends to his flock. It suggests a compassionate and responsible leadership style, not one of tyranny or self-service.
God's Sovereignty: The verse underscores God's sovereignty and his active role in the lives of his people. He can choose whomever He wills, regardless of their background, and use them to fulfill His purposes.
David's Character: While God's choice is paramount, the verse also hints at the qualities that might have made David suitable for leadership. His experience as a shepherd, caring for vulnerable creatures, likely developed traits like responsibility, courage, and compassion. These traits would be essential for ruling a nation.
In essence, Psalm 78:71 is a testament to God's ability to choose and elevate individuals from humble backgrounds to positions of great importance, entrusting them with the care and leadership of His people. It emphasizes the importance of compassionate and responsible leadership, mirroring the care of a shepherd for his flock.