Psalms 69:27

Authorized King James Version

Add iniquity unto their iniquity: and let them not come into thy righteousness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תְּֽנָה
Add
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#2
עֲוֹנָ֑ם
iniquity
perversity, i.e., (moral) evil
#3
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
עֲוֹנָ֑ם
iniquity
perversity, i.e., (moral) evil
#5
וְאַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#6
יָ֝בֹ֗אוּ
and let them not come
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#7
בְּצִדְקָתֶֽךָ׃
into thy righteousness
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)

Analysis

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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