Psalms 36:2

For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful.

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

הֶחֱלִ֣יק

H2505

For he flattereth

to be smooth (figuratively)

אֵלָ֣יו

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

בְּעֵינָ֑יו

H5869

himself in his own eyes

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

לִמְצֹ֖א

H4672

be found

properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present

עֲוֹנ֣וֹ

H5771

until his iniquity

perversity, i.e., (moral) evil

לִשְׂנֹֽא׃

H8130

to be hateful

to hate (personally)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?