Psalms 6:10

Authorized King James Version

Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return and be ashamed suddenly.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יֵבֹ֥שׁוּ

H954

and be ashamed

properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed

וְיִבָּהֲל֣וּ

H926

vexed

to tremble inwardly (or palpitate), i.e., (figuratively) be (causative, make) (suddenly) alarmed or agitated; by implication to hasten anxiously

מְ֭אֹד

H3966

and sore

properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אֹיְבָ֑י

H341

Let all mine enemies

hating; an adversary

יָ֝שֻׁ֗בוּ

H7725

let them return

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

יֵבֹ֥שׁוּ

H954

and be ashamed

properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed

רָֽגַע׃

H7281

suddenly

a wink (of the eyes), i.e., a very short space of time

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

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 6 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?