Psalms 101:7

Authorized King James Version

He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
יֵשֵׁ֨ב׀
H3427
shall not dwell
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#3
בְּקֶ֥רֶב
H7130
within
properly, the nearest part, i.e., the center, whether literal, figurative or adverbial (especially with preposition)
#4
בֵּיתִי֮
H1004
my house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#5
עֹשֵׂ֪ה
H6213
He that worketh
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#6
רְמִ֫יָּ֥ה
H7423
deceit
remissness, treachery
#7
דֹּבֵ֥ר
H1696
he that telleth
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#8
שְׁקָרִ֑ים
H8267
lies
an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)
#9
לֹֽא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#10
יִ֝כּ֗וֹן
H3559
shall not tarry
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
#11
לְנֶ֣גֶד
H5048
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
#12
עֵינָֽי׃
H5869
in my sight
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. 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 Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection