Psalms 58:2

Authorized King James Version

Yea, in heart ye work wickedness; ye weigh the violence of your hands in the earth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַף
meaning accession (used as an adverb or conjunction); also or yea; adversatively though
#2
בְּלֵב֮
Yea in heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#3
עוֹלֹ֪ת
wickedness
(moral) evil
#4
תִּפְעָ֫ל֥וּן
ye work
to do or make (systematically and habitually), especially to practise
#5
בָּאָ֡רֶץ
in the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#6
חֲמַ֥ס
the violence
violence; by implication, wrong; by metonymy unjust gain
#7
יְ֝דֵיכֶ֗ם
of your hands
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
#8
תְּפַלֵּֽסֽוּן׃
ye weigh
properly, to roll flat, i.e., prepare (a road); also to revolve, i.e., weigh (mentally)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection