My soul boasts in the LORD;
This phrase emphasizes a deep, personal relationship with God, where the psalmist's innermost being finds its pride and confidence in the LORD. The Hebrew word for "boasts" can also mean to shine or to glory, indicating that the psalmist's identity and worth are found in God alone. This reflects a common theme in the Psalms, where reliance on God is paramount (Psalm 44:8). The idea of boasting in the LORD is echoed in the New Testament, where Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:31, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord," highlighting a continuity in the biblical narrative that true glory and confidence come from God, not human achievement.

let the oppressed hear and rejoice.
The term "oppressed" refers to those who are afflicted, humble, or in distress. In the historical context of ancient Israel, the oppressed often included the poor, widows, orphans, and foreigners, who were vulnerable in society. The psalmist invites these individuals to hear of God's goodness and find joy. This reflects the biblical theme of God's concern for the marginalized, as seen in passages like Isaiah 61:1, which speaks of bringing good news to the poor and binding up the brokenhearted. The call to rejoice suggests a transformation from sorrow to joy, a theme that resonates with the messianic prophecy of Jesus Christ, who in Luke 4:18-19, identifies Himself with the mission of bringing liberation and joy to the oppressed.

1. David
The author of Psalm 34, David wrote this psalm during a time of personal distress, specifically when he pretended to be insane before Abimelech, who drove him away (1 Samuel 21:10-15). This context highlights David's reliance on God during times of trouble.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in whom David boasts. The use of "LORD" in all caps signifies the covenant name of God, Yahweh, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature.

3. The Oppressed
Those who are suffering or in distress. David's message is directed towards these individuals, encouraging them to find joy in the LORD.Boasting in the LORD
True boasting is not in personal achievements or status but in the LORD's character and deeds. This shifts focus from self to God, fostering humility and gratitude.

Encouragement for the Oppressed
The oppressed are invited to hear and rejoice, suggesting that joy is accessible even in hardship through a relationship with God. This offers hope and a call to trust in God's deliverance.

The Power of Testimony
Sharing personal experiences of God's faithfulness can encourage others, especially those in distress, to find strength and joy in the LORD.

The Role of Humility
Recognizing our limitations and God's sovereignty leads to a deeper reliance on Him, aligning with the biblical principle that God exalts the humble.(2) Humble.--See Note on Psalm 9:12. The LXX.

and Vulg., "the meek." It means here those who have learnt patience in the school of suffering.

Verse 2. - My soul shall make her boast in the Lord (comp. Psalm 44:8; and for the meaning of "boasting in the Lord," see Jeremiah 9:24, "Let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which executeth loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth" ). The humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. They will anticipate joy for themselves when they hear of my rejoicing.

Parallel Commentaries ...


My soul
נַפְשִׁ֑י (nap̄·šî)
Noun - feminine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 5315: A soul, living being, life, self, person, desire, passion, appetite, emotion

will boast
תִּתְהַלֵּ֣ל (tiṯ·hal·lêl)
Verb - Hitpael - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 1984: To shine

in the LORD;
בַּ֭יהוָה (Yah·weh)
Preposition-b | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

let the oppressed
עֲנָוִ֣ים (‘ă·nā·wîm)
Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6035: Poor, afflicted, humble, meek

hear
יִשְׁמְע֖וּ (yiš·mə·‘ū)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 8085: To hear intelligently

and rejoice.
וְיִשְׂמָֽחוּ׃ (wə·yiś·mā·ḥū)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Conjunctive imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 8055: To brighten up, be, blithe, gleesome


Psalm 34:2 NIV
Psalm 34:2 NLT
Psalm 34:2 ESV
Psalm 34:2 NASB
Psalm 34:2 KJV

Psalm 34:2 BibleApps.com
Psalm 34:2 Biblia Paralela
Psalm 34:2 Chinese Bible
Psalm 34:2 French Bible
Psalm 34:2 Catholic Bible

OT Poetry: Psalm 34:2 My soul shall boast in Yahweh (Psalm Ps Psa.)