Psalms 109:7

Authorized King James Version

When he shall be judged, let him be condemned: and let his prayer become sin.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּ֭הִשָּׁ֣פְטוֹ
When he shall be judged
to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal
#2
יֵצֵ֣א
let him be
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#3
רָשָׁ֑ע
condemned
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#4
וּ֝תְפִלָּת֗וֹ
and let his prayer
intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn
#5
תִּהְיֶ֥ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#6
לַֽחֲטָאָֽה׃
become sin
an offence, or a sacrifice for it

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. 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