Psalms 109:25

Authorized King James Version

I became also a reproach unto them: when they looked upon me they shaked their heads.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַאֲנִ֤י׀

H589

הָיִ֣יתִי

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

חֶרְפָּ֣ה

H2781

I became also a reproach

contumely, disgrace, the pudenda

לָהֶ֑ם

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

יִ֝רְא֗וּנִי

H7200

unto them when they looked

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

יְנִיע֥וּן

H5128

upon me they shaked

to waver, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively (as subjoined)

רֹאשָֽׁם׃

H7218

their heads

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

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

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
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?