Psalms 7:15

Authorized King James Version

He made a pit, and digged it, and is fallen into the ditch which he made.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בּ֣וֹר
a pit
a pit hole (especially one used as a cistern or a prison)
#2
כָּ֭רָֽה
He made
properly, to dig; figuratively, to plot; generally, to bore or open
#3
וַֽיַּחְפְּרֵ֑הוּ
and digged
properly, to pry into; by implication, to delve, to explore
#4
וַ֝יִּפֹּ֗ל
it and is fallen
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
#5
בְּשַׁ֣חַת
into the ditch
a pit (especially as a trap); figuratively, destruction
#6
יִפְעָֽל׃
which he made
to do or make (systematically and habitually), especially to practise

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. 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