Psalms 18:27

For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

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

אַ֭תָּה

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

עַם

H5971

people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

עָנִ֣י

H6041

the afflicted

depressed, in mind or circumstances

תוֹשִׁ֑יעַ

H3467

For thou wilt save

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

וְעֵינַ֖יִם

H5869

looks

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

רָמ֣וֹת

H7311

high

to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

תַּשְׁפִּֽיל׃

H8213

but wilt bring down

to depress or sink (especially figuratively, to humiliate, intransitive or transitive)

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 covenant community 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 literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of suffering and persecution within the theological tradition of Psalms Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
How does the suffering and persecution theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of suffering and persecution, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?