Psalms 50:22

Authorized King James Version

Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בִּֽינוּ
Now consider
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
#2
נָ֣א
'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction
#3
זֹ֭את
this (often used adverb)
#4
שֹׁכְחֵ֣י
this ye that forget
to mislay, i.e., to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention
#5
אֱל֑וֹהַּ
God
a deity or the deity
#6
פֶּן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#7
אֶ֝טְרֹ֗ף
lest I tear you in pieces
to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)
#8
וְאֵ֣ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#9
מַצִּֽיל׃
and there be none to deliver
to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection