Ephesians 4:26 to Psalm 4:4

OT Source(s):

Psalm 4:4 (exact quotation from LXX - "be angry and do not sin")
Psalm 4:2-4 (broader context - dealing with adversaries who practice falsehood)

Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Reference Type: Direct Quotation

Connection Method(s): Analogy

Significance: Paul quotes Psalm 4:4 within a broader ethical pattern connecting multiple OT texts (Zechariah 8:16 on truthfulness, Psalm 4:4 on controlled anger). The psalm's context - prayer against deceitful adversaries and call for righteous conduct - fits Paul's concern that the "new man" live distinctly from former Gentile practices. The hermeneutical move acknowledges righteous anger exists but requires careful control, with Paul adding the practical time limit ("don't let sun set on anger") possibly drawn from the psalmist's counsel to ponder rather than act rashly. The theological significance integrates OT wisdom about community conduct into the church's eschatological identity, showing that truthfulness and self-control characterize God's restored people.