“Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care. Today, if only you would hear his voice…” Psalm 95:6-7
The word “bow” is synonymous with worship toward God or respect and service for a human being. God expressly forbid bowing to false gods. Bows were done in a variety of ways and likely included tilting the head, tilting the upper body, kneeling with one’s face to the ground, or lying prostrate. The more elaborate the bow, the greater the expression of devotion.
“Kneel” is a form of bowing sometimes used in prayer. Israelites usually stood while praying.
“People of His pasture … flock under His care” is a metaphor. As a shepherd protects and provides for his flock, a good king cares for the people of his nation. Kings were often referred to as shepherds. God is the great King who protects and provides for His people. Jesus would later say He is the Good Shepherd.
The word “hear” includes both listening to the words and obeying what is said.
Each of the key verbs in this sentence describes a physical posture of humility before the Lord. The Hebrew word translated worship means literally “to prostrate oneself.” When bow down, kneel, and worship occur together as in this verse, they amplify each other and call for a reflective, humble approach to God. Worship is joyful and can be done with abandon; but at other times worship may be quiet reverence of the Almighty.
God’s blessings on your day…