Psalms 2:5

Authorized King James Version

Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָ֤ז
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#2
יְדַבֵּ֣ר
Then shall he speak
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#3
אֵלֵ֣ימוֹ
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
בְאַפּ֑וֹ
unto them in his wrath
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire
#5
וּֽבַחֲרוֹנ֥וֹ
them in his sore displeasure
a burning of anger
#6
יְבַהֲלֵֽמוֹ׃
and vex
to tremble inwardly (or palpitate), i.e., (figuratively) be (causative, make) (suddenly) alarmed or agitated; by implication to hasten anxiously

Analysis

The worship and praise 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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