Psalms 2:6

Authorized King James Version

Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַ֭אֲנִי
i
#2
נָסַ֣כְתִּי
Yet have I set
to pour out, especially a libation, or to cast (metal); by analogy, to anoint a king
#3
מַלְכִּ֑י
my king
a king
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
צִ֝יּ֗וֹן
of Zion
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
#6
הַר
hill
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#7
קָדְשִֽׁי׃
upon my holy
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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