Psalms 55:11

Authorized King James Version

Wickedness is in the midst thereof: deceit and guile depart not from her streets.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַוּ֥וֹת
Wickedness
by implication, of falling); desire; also ruin
#2
בְּקִרְבָּ֑הּ
is in the midst
properly, the nearest part, i.e., the center, whether literal, figurative or adverbial (especially with preposition)
#3
וְֽלֹא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
יָמִ֥ישׁ
depart
to withdraw (both literally and figuratively, whether intransitive or transitive)
#5
מֵ֝רְחֹבָ֗הּ
not from her streets
a width, i.e., (concretely) avenue or area
#6
תֹּ֣ךְ
thereof deceit
oppression
#7
וּמִרְמָֽה׃
and guile
fraud

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 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection