Psalms 22:24

Authorized King James Version

For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
לֹֽא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
בָזָ֨ה
H959
For he hath not despised
to disesteem
#4
וְלֹ֪א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
שִׁקַּ֡ץ
H8262
nor abhorred
to be filthy, i.e., (intensively) to loathe, pollute
#6
עֱנ֬וּת
H6039
the affliction
affliction
#7
עָנִ֗י
H6041
of the afflicted
depressed, in mind or circumstances
#8
וְלֹא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
הִסְתִּ֣יר
H5641
neither hath he hid
to hide (by covering), literally or figuratively
#10
פָּנָ֣יו
H6440
his face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#11
מִמֶּ֑נּוּ
H4480
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#12
וּֽבְשַׁוְּע֖וֹ
H7768
from him but when he cried
properly, to be free; but used only causatively and reflexively, to halloo (for help, i.e., freedom from some trouble)
#13
אֵלָ֣יו
H413
near, with or among; often in general, to
#14
שָׁמֵֽעַ׃
H8085
unto him he heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights suffering and persecution 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. 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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection