Psalms 55:11
Wickedness is in the midst thereof: deceit and guile depart not from her streets.
Original Language Analysis
בְּקִרְבָּ֑הּ
is in the midst
H7130
בְּקִרְבָּ֑הּ
is in the midst
Strong's:
H7130
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, the nearest part, i.e., the center, whether literal, figurative or adverbial (especially with preposition)
וְֽלֹא
H3808
וְֽלֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
3 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
יָמִ֥ישׁ
depart
H4185
יָמִ֥ישׁ
depart
Strong's:
H4185
Word #:
4 of 7
to withdraw (both literally and figuratively, whether intransitive or transitive)
Historical Context
The Law prohibited usury among Israelites (Exodus 22:25), making its presence in Jerusalem a covenant violation. The marketplace ('streets') was the center of economic and legal transactions, making wickedness there particularly pernicious.
Questions for Reflection
- In what subtle ways does deceit function in modern economic and political systems?
- How does the gospel address systemic sin beyond individual conversion?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The Hebrew 'mirmah' (deceit) in the city's midst reveals that wickedness spreads through deception more than open violence. This anticipates Christ's warnings against the leaven of the Pharisees (Matthew 16:6) and Paul's concern for false teachers. Economic oppression ('usury') and judicial corruption ('guile') demonstrate covenant unfaithfulness requiring prophetic denunciation.