Psalms 75:10

Authorized King James Version

All the horns of the wicked also will I cut off; but the horns of the righteous shall be exalted.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
קַֽרְנ֥וֹת
All the horns
a horn (as projecting); by implication, a flask, cornet; by resemblance. an elephant's tooth (i.e., ivory), a corner (of the altar), a peak (of a moun
#3
רְשָׁעִ֣ים
of the wicked
morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person
#4
אֲגַדֵּ֑עַ
also will I cut off
to fell a tree; generally, to destroy anything
#5
תְּ֝רוֹמַ֗מְנָה
shall be exalted
to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)
#6
קַֽרְנ֥וֹת
All the horns
a horn (as projecting); by implication, a flask, cornet; by resemblance. an elephant's tooth (i.e., ivory), a corner (of the altar), a peak (of a moun
#7
צַדִּֽיק׃
of the righteous
just

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 historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection