Psalms 108:10

Authorized King James Version

Who will bring me into the strong city? who will lead me into Edom?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִ֣י
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#2
יֹ֭בִלֵנִי
Who will bring
properly, to flow; causatively, to bring (especially with pomp)
#3
עִ֣יר
city
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#4
מִבְצָ֑ר
me into the strong
a fortification, castle, or fortified city; figuratively, a defender
#5
מִ֖י
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#6
נָחַ֣נִי
who will lead
to guide; by implication, to transport (into exile, or as colonists)
#7
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#8
אֱדֽוֹם׃
me into Edom
edom, the elder twin-brother of jacob; hence the region (idumaea) occupied by him

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection