Psalms 109:11

Authorized King James Version

Let the extortioner catch all that he hath; and let the strangers spoil his labour.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יְנַקֵּ֣שׁ

H5367

catch

to entrap (with a noose), literally or figuratively

נ֭וֹשֶׁה

H5383

Let the extortioner

to lend or (by reciprocity) borrow on security or interest

לְכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אֲשֶׁר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

ל֑וֹ

וְיָבֹ֖זּוּ

H962

spoil

to plunder

זָרִ֣ים

H2114

all that he hath and let the strangers

to turn aside (especially for lodging); hence to be a foreigner, strange, profane; specifically (active participle) to commit adultery

יְגִיעֽוֹ׃

H3018

his labour

toil; hence, a work, produce, property (as the result of labor)

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 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?