Psalms 89:22

Authorized King James Version

The enemy shall not exact upon him; nor the son of wickedness afflict him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יַשִּׁ֣יא

H5378

shall not exact

to lend on interest; by implication, to dun for debt

אוֹיֵ֣ב

H341

The enemy

hating; an adversary

בּ֑וֹ

וּבֶן

H1121

upon him nor the son

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

עַ֝וְלָ֗ה

H5766

of wickedness

(moral) evil

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יְעַנֶּֽנּוּ׃

H6031

afflict

to depress literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as follows)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights suffering and persecution 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. The historical development of suffering and persecution within the theological tradition of Psalms 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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about suffering and persecution?
How does the suffering and persecution theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding suffering and persecution as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?