Psalms 73:6

Authorized King James Version

Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them as a garment.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָ֭כֵן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#2
עֲנָקַ֣תְמוֹ
compasseth them about as a chain
to collar, i.e., adorn with a necklace; figuratively, to fit out with supplies
#3
גַאֲוָ֑ה
Therefore pride
arrogance or majesty; by implication, (concretely) ornament
#4
יַעֲטָף
covereth
to shroud, i.e., clothe (whether transitive or reflexive); hence (from the idea of darkness) to languish
#5
שִׁ֝֗ית
them as a garment
a dress (as put on)
#6
חָמָ֥ס
violence
violence; by implication, wrong; by metonymy unjust gain
#7
לָֽמוֹ׃
H0

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