Book of Psalms - Chapter 78 - Verse 34

When interpreting the verse "When he slew them, then they sought him: and they returned and inquired early after God", it is important to understand the context in which it is written. This verse comes from the Old Testament, specifically the book of Psalms, which is a collection of songs and poems that express the psalmist's relationship with God. In this particular verse, the psalmist is reflecting on how the Israelites turned to God only after experiencing suffering or consequences for their actions. The phrase "slew them" can be understood metaphorically as referring to God's judgment or punishment. Despite being disciplined by God, the Israelites ultimately sought God and returned to Him, demonstrating their desire for a relationship with Him. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking and inquiring after God, even in times of hardship or trials. It emphasizes the idea of repentance and turning to God for guidance and forgiveness. Overall, this verse highlights the cyclical nature of the Israelites' relationship with God, where they would stray, face consequences, and then return to seek Him.

One possible theological interpretation of this verse is that it highlights the cyclical nature of humanity's relationship with God. The verse suggests that when people face consequences for their actions, they turn to God for help and seek Him. This can be seen as a reflection of human nature, where in times of trouble or distress, individuals often seek a higher power for guidance and support. The verse also emphasizes the importance of seeking God early on, indicating that it is wise to turn to Him quickly in times of need rather than waiting until things escalate further. From a word study perspective, the use of the word "inquired" can give insights into the depth of the seeking that the people engaged in. This word suggests a desire to truly understand and know God, rather than just seeking His help in a superficial way. Overall, this verse illustrates the importance of seeking and returning to God, especially in times of difficulty or hardship.