Psalms 109:31

For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save him from those that condemn his soul.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יַ֭עֲמֹד

H5975

For he shall stand

to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)

לִימִ֣ין

H3225

at the right hand

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

אֶבְי֑וֹן

H34

of the poor

destitute

לְ֝הוֹשִׁ֗יעַ

H3467

to save

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

מִשֹּׁפְטֵ֥י

H8199

him from those that condemn

to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal

נַפְשֽׁוֹ׃

H5315

his soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 109 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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 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?