Book of Psalms - Chapter 78 - Verse 2

When the Bible verse says, "I will open my mouth in a parable: I will utter dark sayings of old," it means that the speaker, often believed to be King David, is planning to share deep and mysterious teachings that have been passed down through generations. Parables are stories or sayings that contain important moral or spiritual lessons, and they are often used to convey truths in a symbolic or metaphorical way. By saying that he will utter dark sayings of old, the speaker is indicating that the teachings he will share are not easily understood and may require contemplation and interpretation. The use of the word "dark" here does not necessarily mean sinister or evil, but rather refers to the mysterious and profound nature of the sayings. This verse highlights the depth and complexity of the spiritual wisdom contained within the Bible, encouraging readers to engage with the text on a deeper level to uncover its rich meanings.

Within this verse, the speaker expresses their intention to speak in parables and convey ancient and mysterious truths through dark sayings. This method of teaching through parables was frequently used by Jesus in the New Testament to convey spiritual truths in a way that would engage his audience and provoke deeper reflection. In the Old Testament, prophets like Isaiah and Ezekiel also used parables and dark sayings to communicate divine messages to the people. The phrase "dark sayings of old" indicates that these teachings have existed since ancient times, hinting at a deep connection to the wisdom and mysteries of God that have been passed down through generations. The use of parables and dark sayings serves to challenge listeners to delve deeper into the meaning behind the words, encouraging a more profound understanding of spiritual truths.