I will instruct you
The phrase "I will instruct you" comes from the Hebrew root "sakal," which means to be prudent, to have insight, or to give understanding. In the context of Psalm 32:8, this is a divine promise of guidance and wisdom. The Lord Himself is the instructor, emphasizing His personal involvement in the believer's life. Historically, this reflects the intimate relationship God desires with His people, akin to a teacher guiding a student. This instruction is not merely academic but deeply personal and transformative, aiming to align the believer's heart with God's will.

and teach you
The word "teach" is derived from the Hebrew "yarah," which means to throw, shoot, or point out. It conveys the idea of directing or guiding someone along a path. In the biblical context, this teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but about showing the way to live a righteous life. The historical context of the Psalms often reflects a shepherd guiding his sheep, which is a fitting metaphor for God's guidance. This teaching is continuous and dynamic, ensuring that the believer is equipped to face life's challenges with divine wisdom.

in the way you should go
The phrase "in the way you should go" suggests a specific path or direction ordained by God. The Hebrew word for "way" is "derek," which means a road, journey, or manner of life. This indicates that God has a particular plan and purpose for each individual. The historical context of ancient Israel, with its emphasis on following God's commandments and statutes, underscores the importance of walking in God's ways. This path is not arbitrary but is designed for the believer's ultimate good and spiritual growth.

I will counsel you
The term "counsel" comes from the Hebrew "ya'ats," meaning to advise, consult, or give counsel. This highlights God's role as a wise counselor who provides guidance and direction. In the biblical narrative, God's counsel is always perfect and trustworthy, contrasting with human wisdom, which can be flawed. The historical context of kings and leaders seeking counsel from prophets or wise men underscores the value of divine counsel, which is available to all believers through a relationship with God.

with My eye upon you
The phrase "with My eye upon you" conveys a sense of watchfulness and care. The Hebrew word for "eye" is "ayin," which can also imply presence and attention. This imagery suggests that God is not distant or detached but is closely watching over His people. In the historical context, a king or shepherd would keep a vigilant eye on their subjects or flock, ensuring their safety and well-being. This assurance of God's attentive presence provides comfort and confidence to the believer, knowing that they are never out of His sight or care.

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 32, David is a central figure in the Old Testament, known for his deep relationship with God, his psalms, and his reign as king of Israel.

2. God
The speaker in this verse, offering guidance and counsel to the believer. God is portrayed as a personal and caring guide.

3. Israel
The nation to whom many of the Psalms were originally directed, representing God's chosen people and often serving as a metaphor for the believer's journey.Divine Guidance
God promises to instruct and teach us, indicating His active role in our lives. We should seek His guidance in prayer and through His Word.

Personal Relationship
The verse highlights a personal relationship with God, where He is not distant but actively involved in our daily decisions and paths.

Trust in God's Counsel
Trusting in God's counsel requires humility and a willingness to submit to His wisdom over our own understanding.

God's Watchful Care
The promise that God will watch over us assures us of His protection and care, encouraging us to walk confidently in His ways.

Active Listening
We must cultivate an attitude of listening and obedience to God's instructions, being attentive to His voice through Scripture and prayer.(8) I will guide thee with mine eye.--The Hebrew may be rendered either "I will advise--with mine eye upon thee," or "I will fix mine eye upon thee," which is the translation by the LXX., and to be preferred. This verse changes so abruptly to the first person that it is better, with most of the old interpreters and, among moderns, with Ewald, Hitzig, and Reuss, to suppose them the words of deliverance that sound so sweet in the psalmist's ears.

Verses 8, 9. - St. Jerome, and others after him, including Dr. Kay, have regarded this passage as an utterance of God, who first admonishes David, and then passes on to an admonition of the Israelites generally. But such a sudden intrusion of a Divine utterance, without any notice of a change of speaker, is without parallel in the Psalms, and should certainly not be admitted without some plain necessity. Here is no necessity at all. The words are quite suitable in the mouth of David, as an admonition to the Israelites of his time; they accord with the title, which he himself seems to have prefixed to the psalm, and explain it; and they fulfil the promise made in Psalm 51:15. Verse 8. - I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go. We must suppose the "godly man" of ver. 6 addressed, if we regard David as the speaker. Such a man was not beyond the need of instruction and teaching, since he was liable to sins of infirmity, and even to grievous falls, as had been seen by David's example. I will guide thee with mine eye; i.e. "I will keep watch over thee with mine eye, and guide thee as I see to be necessary."

Parallel Commentaries ...


I will instruct you
אַשְׂכִּֽילְךָ֨ ׀ (’aś·kî·lə·ḵā)
Verb - Hifil - Imperfect Cohortative if contextual - first person common singular | second person masculine singular
Strong's 7919: To be, circumspect, intelligent

and teach
וְֽאוֹרְךָ֗ (wə·’ō·wr·ḵā)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive imperfect Cohortative if contextual - first person common singular | second person masculine singular
Strong's 3384: To flow as water, to lay, throw, to point out, to teach

you the way
בְּדֶֽרֶךְ־ (bə·ḏe·reḵ-)
Preposition-b | Noun - common singular
Strong's 1870: A road, a course of life, mode of action

you should go;
תֵלֵ֑ךְ (ṯê·lêḵ)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 1980: To go, come, walk

I will give you counsel
אִֽיעֲצָ֖ה (’î·‘ă·ṣāh)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular
Strong's 3289: To advise, to deliberate, resolve

[and] watch
עֵינִֽי׃ (‘ê·nî)
Noun - common singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 5869: An eye, a fountain

over you.
עָלֶ֣יךָ (‘ā·le·ḵā)
Preposition | second person masculine singular
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against


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OT Poetry: Psalm 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you (Psalm Ps Psa.)