Psalms 77:10

Authorized King James Version

And I said, This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וָ֭אֹמַר

H559

And I said

to say (used with great latitude)

חַלּ֣וֹתִי

H2470

This is my infirmity

properly, to be rubbed or worn; hence (figuratively) to stroke (in flattering), entreat

הִ֑יא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

שְׁ֝נ֗וֹת

H8141

but I will remember the years

a year (as a revolution of time)

יְמִ֣ין

H3225

of the right hand

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

עֶלְיֽוֹן׃

H5945

of the most High

an elevation, i.e., (adjectively) lofty (comparatively); as title, the supreme

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?