Psalms 35:26

Authorized King James Version

Let them be ashamed and brought to confusion together that rejoice at mine hurt: let them be clothed with shame and dishonour that magnify themselves against me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יֵ֘בֹ֤שׁוּ
Let them be ashamed
properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed
#2
וְיַחְפְּר֨וּ׀
and brought to confusion
to blush; figuratively, to be ashamed, disappointed; causatively, to shame, reproach
#3
יַחְדָּו֮
together
properly, a unit, i.e., (adverb) unitedly
#4
שְׂמֵחֵ֪י
that rejoice
blithe or gleeful
#5
רָעָ֫תִ֥י
at mine hurt
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#6
יִֽלְבְּשׁוּ
let them be clothed
properly, wrap around, i.e., (by implication) to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively
#7
בֹ֥שֶׁת
with shame
shame (the feeling and the condition, as well as its cause); by implication (specifically) an idol
#8
וּכְלִמָּ֑ה
and dishonour
disgrace
#9
הַֽמַּגְדִּילִ֥ים
that magnify
to be (causatively make) large (in various senses, as in body, mind, estate or honor, also in pride)
#10
עָלָֽי׃
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

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

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection