“We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.”
The purpose of transmission is clarified: "We will not hide them from their children; we will tell to the coming generation the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and the wonders that he has done." This verse articulates the fundamental duty of the covenant community: to ensure that each generation knows God's mighty works and praises God accordingly. The rejection of hiding knowledge (v. 4) contrasts implicitly with Deuteronomic laws that sometimes call for secrecy of divine wisdom; here, the tradition must be openly transmitted. The threefold reference—praises, strength, wonders—encompasses the full spectrum of what Israel should know about God.
Church Fathers on Psalms 78:4
1. This Psalm does contain the things which are said to have been done among the old people: but the new and latter people is being admonished, to beware that it be not ungrateful regarding the blessings of God, and provoke His anger against it, whereas it ought to receive His grace....The Title thereof does first move and engage our attention. For it is not without reason inscribed, “Understanding of Asaph:” but it is perchance because these words require a reader who does…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS
Publish a reflection on this verse
No reflections on this verse yet. Be the first to write one!