Psalms 71:6

Authorized King James Version

By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother's bowels: my praise shall be continually of thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עָלֶ֤יךָ׀
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
נִסְמַ֬כְתִּי
By thee have I been holden up
to prop (literally or figuratively); reflexively, to lean upon or take hold of (in a favorable or unfavorable sense)
#3
מִבֶּ֗טֶן
from the womb
the belly, especially the womb; also the bosom or body of anything
#4
מִמְּעֵ֣י
bowels
used only in plural the intestines, or (collectively) the abdomen, figuratively, sympathy; by implication, a vest; by extension the stomach, the uteru
#5
אִ֭מִּי
me out of my mother's
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
#6
אַתָּ֣ה
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#7
גוֹזִ֑י
thou art he that took
to cut off, i.e., portion out
#8
בְּךָ֖
H0
#9
תְהִלָּתִ֣י
my praise
laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn
#10
תָמִֽיד׃
shall be continually
properly, continuance (as indefinite extension); but used only (attributively as adjective) constant (or adverbially, constantly); elliptically the re

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