Psalms 5:9

Authorized King James Version

For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulchre; they flatter with their tongue.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֤י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אֵ֪ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

בְּפִ֡יהוּ

H6310

in their mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

נְכוֹנָה֮

H3559

For there is no faithfulness

properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,

קִרְבָּ֪ם

H7130

their inward

properly, the nearest part, i.e., the center, whether literal, figurative or adverbial (especially with preposition)

הַ֫וּ֥וֹת

H1942

part is very wickedness

by implication, of falling); desire; also ruin

קֶֽבֶר

H6913

sepulchre

a sepulcher

פָּת֥וּחַ

H6605

is an open

to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve

גְּרוֹנָ֑ם

H1627

their throat

the throat (as roughened by swallowing)

#10

לְ֝שׁוֹנָ֗ם

H3956

with their tongue

the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,

#11

יַחֲלִֽיקוּן׃

H2505

they flatter

to be smooth (figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of faith connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about faith, 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. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 5 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of faith differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?