Psalms 16:10

Authorized King James Version

For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י׀
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
לֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
תַעֲזֹ֣ב
For thou wilt not leave
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc
#4
נַפְשִׁ֣י
my soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#5
לִשְׁא֑וֹל
in hell
hades or the world of the dead (as if a subterranean retreat), including its accessories and inmates
#6
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
תִתֵּ֥ן
neither wilt thou suffer
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#8
חֲ֝סִידְךָ֗
thine Holy One
properly, kind, i.e., (religiously) pious (a saint)
#9
לִרְא֥וֹת
to see
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#10
שָֽׁחַת׃
corruption
a pit (especially as a trap); figuratively, destruction

Cross References

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Analysis

The suffering and persecution theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection