Psalms 62:10

Authorized King James Version

Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart upon them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
H408
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תִּבְטְח֣וּ
H982
Trust
properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
#3
בְעֹשֶׁק֮
H6233
not in oppression
injury, fraud, (subjectively) distress, (concretely) unjust gain
#4
וּבְגָזֵ֪ל
H1498
in robbery
robbery, or (concretely) plunder
#5
אַל
H408
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#6
תֶּ֫הְבָּ֥לוּ
H1891
and become not vain
to be vain in act, word, or expectation; specifically to lead astray
#7
חַ֤יִל׀
H2428
if riches
probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength
#8
כִּֽי
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#9
יָנ֑וּב
H5107
increase
to germinate, i.e., (figuratively) to (causatively, make) flourish; also (of words), to utter
#10
אַל
H408
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#11
תָּשִׁ֥יתוּ
H7896
set
to place (in a very wide application)
#12
לֵֽב׃
H3820
not your heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. 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