Psalms 73:8
They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily.
Original Language Analysis
יְדַבֵּֽרוּ׃
and speak
H1696
יְדַבֵּֽרוּ׃
and speak
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
2 of 6
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
עֹ֑שֶׁק
concerning oppression
H6233
עֹ֑שֶׁק
concerning oppression
Strong's:
H6233
Word #:
4 of 6
injury, fraud, (subjectively) distress, (concretely) unjust gain
Cross References
Jude 1:16These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.Psalms 17:10They are inclosed in their own fat: with their mouth they speak proudly.Psalms 10:2The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined.2 Peter 2:18For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.2 Peter 2:10But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.
Historical Context
Prophets consistently condemned leaders who used eloquent speech to justify oppression (Isaiah 10:1-2, Micah 2:1-2). Corruption often hides behind sophisticated rhetoric and legal maneuvering.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you recognize when persuasive speech is being used to justify injustice?
- What responsibility do Christians have to speak truth to power that corrupts through words?
- How can you ensure your speech builds up rather than corrupts or oppresses others?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
The wicked 'corrupt' others through their speech, speaking 'wickedly concerning oppression' from their lofty position. They use rhetorical skill to justify exploitation and pervert justice. Speaking 'loftily' indicates arrogant confidence that their power immunizes them from consequences. This describes corrupt leaders who twist language to legitimize injustice. Yet God hears every word (Matthew 12:36) and will judge those who use speech to harm rather than heal.