What does Psalms 105:15 mean?

Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm. Psalms 105:15

Explanation

Psalm 105:15 contains a divine command: “[Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.]” At the most basic level, this verse serves as a decree from God, protecting His chosen messengers and leaders. The term “anointed” refers to individuals who have been consecrated or set apart for a special role or purpose by God. Similarly, “prophets” are those called by God to speak His words and reveal His will to the people.

The deeper meaning of this verse suggests that God watches over and protects His chosen ones, and there are consequences for those who act against them. It is not merely about physical harm but also about respecting the authority and position of those who have been anointed by God.

Historical Context

Psalm 105 is a psalm of thanksgiving and recounts God’s mighty works and faithful dealings with Israel. It goes through a litany of historical elements including the covenant with Abraham, the stories of Joseph, and the Exodus from Egypt. The verse in question is believed to refer to the patriarchs and possibly the prophets who led the Israelites and spoke on God’s behalf. The historical context sees the leaders of Israel as being under God’s special care and guidance.

Theological Insights

From a theological viewpoint, the verse emphasizes God’s sovereignty and his protective care over His divinely appointed servants. This is significant in understanding the relationship between God and His people, as well as the role of divinely appointed leadership within the faith community.

Different Christian denominations may interpret the anointing and role of prophets differently, reflecting a variety of theological positions about divine calling and the continuation of prophetic gifts in the present day.

Practical Applications

Practically speaking, this verse can be taken as a call for believers to respect and protect those in leadership and service within the church and to trust in God’s protection over their lives. It also serves as a warning against speaking negatively about or causing harm to those whom God has chosen to lead His people.

Cross-References

• 1 Chronicles 16:22 – “Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.”
• Isaiah 54:17 – “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn…”
• Hebrews 13:17 – “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account…”

Language Study

The key words in the original Hebrew language within this verse are “mine anointed” (מְשִׁיחָי, meshichai) and “prophets” (נְבִיאַי, nevi’ai). The term ‘anointed’ (meshichai) is closely related to the word Messiah, meaning someone who is consecrated with oil as a sign of being set apart for a holy purpose. The term ‘prophet’ (nevi’ai) refers to individuals who receive and proclaim messages from God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient cultures, anointing leaders was not unique to the Israelites; many cultures anointed kings and leaders as part of their religious ceremonies. However, the understanding of “prophets” as voiced in the Psalms is unique to the monotheistic tradition of the Hebrews, where prophets were regarded as direct mouthpieces of the one true God, rather than as individuals interpreting the will of many gods or engaging in divination.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not lend itself directly to scientific analysis, as it addresses spiritual and theological concepts rather than empirical claims. However, contemporary psychological studies do look at the effects of believing oneself to be under divine protection, which can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental resilience and stress coping mechanisms.

Commentaries

Commentators offer different perspectives on this verse. Some focus on the historical aspect, affirming that God did indeed protect His appointed leaders in Israel’s history. Others emphasize the timeless nature of this divine command, suggesting it applies to church leaders through the ages. Matthew Henry’s Commentary, for example, sees it as assurance of God’s care for His church and ministers. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary might highlight its liturgical function in reaffirming God’s faithfulness to His covenant people. Many agree on the fundamental principle that there is a divine mandate to respect those called and set apart for God’s purposes.