Psalms 69:12

Authorized King James Version

They that sit in the gate speak against me; and I was the song of the drunkards.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יָשִׂ֣יחוּ
speak
to ponder, i.e., (by implication) converse (with oneself, and hence, aloud) or (transitively) utter
#2
בִ֭י
H0
#3
יֹ֣שְׁבֵי
They that sit in
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#4
שָׁ֑עַר
the gate
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#5
וּ֝נְגִינ֗וֹת
against me and I was the song
properly, instrumental music; by implication, a stringed instrument; by extension, a poem set to music; specifically, an epigram
#6
שׁוֹתֵ֥י
of the drunkards
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)
#7
שֵׁכָֽר׃
an intoxicant, i.e., intensely alcoholic liquor

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