Psalms 10:18

To judge the fatherless and the oppressed, that the man of the earth may no more oppress.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לִשְׁפֹּ֥ט

H8199

To judge

to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal

יָת֗וֹם

H3490

the fatherless

a bereaved person

וָ֫דָ֥ךְ

H1790

and the oppressed

crushed, i.e., (figuratively) injured

בַּל

H1077

properly, a failure; by implication nothing; usually (adverb) not at all; also lest

יוֹסִ֥יף

H3254

may no more

to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)

ע֑וֹד

H5750

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

לַעֲרֹ֥ץ

H6206

oppress

to awe or (intransitive) to dread; hence, to harass

אֱ֝נ֗וֹשׁ

H376

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

מִן

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

#10

הָאָֽרֶץ׃

H776

of the earth

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?