Psalms 64:3

Authorized King James Version

Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their arrows, even bitter words:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲשֶׁ֤ר
H834
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#2
שָׁנְנ֣וּ
H8150
Who whet
to point (transitive or intransitive); intensively, to pierce; figuratively, to inculcate
#3
כַחֶ֣רֶב
H2719
like a sword
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
#4
לְשׁוֹנָ֑ם
H3956
their tongue
the tongue (of man or animals), used literally (as the instrument of licking, eating, or speech), and figuratively (speech, an ingot, a fork of flame,
#5
דָּרְכ֥וּ
H1869
and bend
to tread; by implication, to walk; also to string a bow (by treading on it in bending)
#6
חִ֝צָּ֗ם
H2671
their bows to shoot their arrows
properly, a piercer, i.e., an arrow; by implication, a wound; figuratively, (of god) thunder-bolt; the shaft of a spear
#7
דָּבָ֥ר
H1697
words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#8
מָֽר׃
H4751
even bitter
bitter (literally or figuratively); also (as noun) bitterness, or (adverbially) bitterly

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