Psalms 18:25

With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful; with an upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright;

Word-by-Word Analysis

עִם

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

חָסִ֥יד

H2623

With the merciful

properly, kind, i.e., (religiously) pious (a saint)

תִּתְחַסָּ֑ד

H2616

thou wilt shew thyself merciful

properly, perhaps to bow (the neck only [compare h2603] in courtesy to an equal), i.e., to be kind; also (by euphemistically [compare h1288], but rare

עִם

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

גְּבַ֥ר

H1399

man

a person

תָּ֝מִ֗ים

H8549

with an upright

entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth

תִּתַּמָּֽם׃

H8552

thou wilt shew thyself upright

to complete, in a good or a bad sense, literal, or figurative, transitive or intransitive

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?