The term "playest" is an archaic form of the verb "play," found in older English translations of the Bible. It is used to describe actions of amusement, entertainment, or engagement in activities that are not of a serious or solemn nature. In the context of the Bible, "playest" can refer to both innocent enjoyment and activities that may lead to moral or spiritual concerns.

Biblical References:

1. Exodus 32:6 : "So the next day they rose early and sacrificed burnt offerings and presented fellowship offerings. And the people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry."
· In this passage, the term "revelry" is associated with the Israelites' behavior after creating the golden calf. The act of "playing" here is not merely innocent fun but is tied to idolatry and disobedience to God. The people engaged in activities that led them away from their covenant with the Lord.

2. Judges 16:25 : "And while their hearts were merry, they said, 'Call for Samson, that he may entertain us.' So they called Samson out of the prison, and he performed for them. And they stationed him between the pillars."
· Here, the Philistines call upon Samson to "entertain" them, which can be understood as a form of "playing." This entertainment is at the expense of Samson's dignity and is a demonstration of the Philistines' mockery of God's chosen judge.

3. 1 Samuel 18:7 : "And as they danced, the women sang out: 'Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.'"
· The women "played" music and danced in celebration of David's victories. This form of play is a communal expression of joy and triumph, highlighting the cultural practice of music and dance in celebrations.

Theological Implications:

In the biblical context, "playest" can have both positive and negative connotations. On one hand, play can be a form of celebration and joy, as seen in the communal dances and songs of victory. On the other hand, it can also represent a departure from spiritual discipline, as in the case of the Israelites' revelry around the golden calf.

From a theological perspective, the concept of "play" in the Bible often serves as a reflection of the human condition. It can reveal the heart's inclination towards either worship and gratitude or idolatry and rebellion. The Bible encourages believers to engage in activities that honor God and align with His commandments, warning against those that lead to spiritual downfall.

Cultural Context:

In ancient Israelite culture, play and entertainment were integral parts of life, often associated with religious festivals, weddings, and communal gatherings. Music, dance, and storytelling were common forms of entertainment that also served to reinforce cultural values and religious beliefs.

However, the Bible also cautions against excessive indulgence in play that distracts from one's duties to God and community. The balance between enjoyment and responsibility is a recurring theme, urging believers to discern the appropriate times and manners for play.

Moral Lessons:

The use of "playest" in the Bible serves as a reminder of the importance of intention and context in human activities. While play can be a source of joy and community bonding, it must be approached with an awareness of its potential to lead away from Godly living. Believers are called to engage in play that edifies and glorifies God, maintaining a heart aligned with His will.

Moreover, to Ignorant Gentiles.
... instead of psalms. Dost thou think it to be life, when thou playest or
lookest forward to such things as these? Thou choosest, O ...
/.../the instructions of commodianus/xxxiv moreover to ignorant gentiles.htm

Whether the Honest is the Same as the Beautiful?
... stated above [3469](A[1]). But a certain beauty is contrary to virtue, wherefore
it is written (Ezech.16:15): "Trusting in thy beauty thou playest the harlot ...
//christianbookshelf.org/aquinas/summa theologica/whether the honest is the.htm

Psalm LXI.
... 9. "So I will play music to Thy name, that I may render my vows from day unto day"
(ver.8). If thou playest music to the name of God, play not for a time. ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxi.htm

Rom. xii. 4, 5
... thee, as even to kiss thee at the time of betrayal, and that when a kiss too was
the signal for the betrayal; is it with Him that thou playest the traitor's ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxi rom xii 4.htm

Playest (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Playest (1 Occurrence). Hosea 4:15 Though thou,
Israel, playest the harlot, yet let not Judah offend; and ...
/p/playest.htm - 6k

Players (7 Occurrences)

/p/players.htm - 8k

Playeth (5 Occurrences)

/p/playeth.htm - 7k

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