Psalms 10:2

Authorized King James Version

The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּגַאֲוַ֣ת
in his pride
arrogance or majesty; by implication, (concretely) ornament
#2
רָ֭שָׁע
The wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#3
יִדְלַ֣ק
doth persecute
to flame (literally or figuratively)
#4
עָנִ֑י
the poor
depressed, in mind or circumstances
#5
יִתָּפְשׂ֓וּ׀
let them be taken
to manipulate, i.e., seize; chiefly to capture, wield, specifically, to overlay; figuratively, to use unwarrantably
#6
בִּמְזִמּ֖וֹת
in the devices
a plan, usually evil (machination), sometimes good (sagacity)
#7
ז֣וּ
that
this or that
#8
חָשָֽׁבוּ׃
they have imagined
properly, to plait or interpenetrate, i.e., (literally) to weave or (generally) to fabricate; figuratively, to plot or contrive (usually in a maliciou

Analysis

This verse develops the suffering and persecution theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of suffering and persecution within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection