Meaning of Psalms 78:2

This verse from Psalm 78, penned by Asaph, signifies a deliberate and purposeful act of communication. The psalmist declares his intention to use a "parable" (Hebrew: mashal) to convey profound truths that are "hidden" (Hebrew: nistar). The term mashal itself suggests a saying that is authoritative, instructive, and often metaphorical or allegorical, capable of conveying deep wisdom beyond its surface meaning. The "hidden things" are not secrets in a clandestine sense, but rather profound spiritual realities and historical lessons that have been obscured by time, forgetfulness, or a lack of diligent teaching. The phrase "things from of old" (Hebrew: min-qedem) emphasizes the ancient origins of these truths, pointing to God's established covenant, His mighty acts in history, and the foundational principles of His relationship with His people, all of which require careful remembrance and transmission.

Context and Background

Psalm 78 is a didactic psalm, meaning it is designed to teach. It recounts the history of Israel's relationship with God, highlighting their repeated failures to trust and obey Him despite His faithfulness and numerous miracles. Asaph, a Levite and a musician in David's court, was tasked with preserving and teaching the history and statutes of God to future generations. This psalm serves as a historical lesson book, aiming to prevent the Israelites from repeating the mistakes of their ancestors. The opening declaration sets the stage for a narrative that will draw lessons from the past to shape the present and future faithfulness of God's people.

Key Themes and Messages

The central themes are divine revelation, historical remembrance, parental instruction, and the consequences of disobedience. The psalmist commits to unveiling divine wisdom through storytelling, emphasizing that God's actions and commands are not meant to be obscure but are accessible to those who will listen and learn. The emphasis on "things from of old" underscores the importance of understanding God's covenantal faithfulness and His historical interventions as foundational to present faith. The implicit call is for attentive listening and faithful transmission of these divine truths.

Spiritual Significance and Application

The spiritual significance lies in the recognition that God's truth is often revealed through narrative and metaphor, requiring interpretation and reflection. This verse calls believers to actively seek out and understand the "hidden" truths of God's Word, which are not always immediately apparent. It also highlights the responsibility of those who have been entrusted with this knowledge to share it clearly and effectively, particularly with younger generations. The application involves a commitment to studying Scripture, engaging with its historical accounts, and teaching its timeless lessons to those around us, ensuring that the wisdom of God is not lost.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse connects directly to the ongoing biblical theme of God revealing Himself and His will to humanity, often through His actions in history and His spoken word. It anticipates the New Testament, where Jesus, the ultimate "parable" (e.g., John 10:6), opens up divine mysteries through His teachings and parables. The command to teach "things from of old" resonates with the Great Commission, which calls for disciples to be made and taught all that Jesus commanded (Matthew 28:20). The psalm's emphasis on remembering God's deeds is a recurring motif throughout Scripture, from the Passover to the Lord's Supper.

Analogies

One analogy for opening one's mouth with a parable to utter hidden things is like a skilled cartographer revealing ancient trade routes and hidden treasures on a map that was previously incomprehensible. Another is a master craftsman unsealing a beautifully crafted, intricate mechanism, explaining its function and purpose that was not obvious from its exterior. The parable is the key that unlocks understanding, and the "hidden things" are the profound insights and divine wisdom that are brought to light.

Relation to Other Verses

• Deuteronomy 6:6-7: "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up." This directly parallels the psalmist's intent to teach, emphasizing the active and continuous nature of transmitting God's word.
• Matthew 13:10-11: When the disciples asked Jesus why He spoke in parables, He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but to them it has not been given. Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them." This echoes the idea of "hidden things" being revealed to receptive hearts.
• Hebrews 1:1-3: "In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many different times and in many different ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe." This highlights God's historical pattern of revelation, culminating in Christ, who is the ultimate interpreter of God's will.