Psalms 141:10

Authorized King James Version

Let the wicked fall into their own nets, whilst that I withal escape.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יִפְּל֣וּ
fall
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
#2
בְמַכְמֹרָ֣יו
into their own nets
a (hunter's) net (as dark from concealment)
#3
רְשָׁעִ֑ים
Let the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#4
יַ֥חַד
whilst that I withal
properly, a unit, i.e., (adverb) unitedly
#5
אָ֝נֹכִ֗י
i
#6
עַֽד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#7
אֶעֱבֽוֹר׃
escape
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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