Psalms 7:16

His mischief shall return upon his own head, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יָשׁ֣וּב

H7725

shall return

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

עֲמָל֣וֹ

H5999

His mischief

toil, i.e., wearing effort; hence, worry, whether of body or mind

בְרֹאשׁ֑וֹ

H7218

upon his own head

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

וְעַ֥ל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

קָ֝דְקֳד֗וֹ

H6936

upon his own pate

the crown of the head (as the part most bowed)

חֲמָס֥וֹ

H2555

and his violent

violence; by implication, wrong; by metonymy unjust gain

יֵרֵֽד׃

H3381

dealing shall come down

to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau

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

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 7 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?