Psalms 125:3

Authorized King James Version

For the rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous; lest the righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

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

לֹ֪א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יָנ֡וּחַ

H5117

shall not rest

to rest, i.e., settle down; used in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, intransitive, transitive and causative (to dwell, stay, l

שֵׁ֤בֶט

H7626

For the rod

a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan

הָרֶ֗שַׁע

H7562

of the wicked

a wrong (especially moral)

עַל֮

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

גּוֹרַ֪ל

H1486

upon the lot

properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)

הַצַּדִּיקִ֨ים

H6662

of the righteous

just

לְמַ֡עַן

H4616

lest

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

#10

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#11

יִשְׁלְח֖וּ

H7971

put forth

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

#12

הַצַּדִּיקִ֨ים

H6662

of the righteous

just

#13

בְּעַוְלָ֬תָה

H5766

unto iniquity

(moral) evil

#14

יְדֵיהֶֽם׃

H3027

their hands

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

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 historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 125 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?