Psalms 89:41

Authorized King James Version

All that pass by the way spoil him: he is a reproach to his neighbours.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שַׁ֭סֻּהוּ

H8155

spoil

to plunder

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

עֹ֣בְרֵי

H5674

All that pass by

to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in

דָ֑רֶךְ

H1870

the way

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

הָיָ֥ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

חֶ֝רְפָּ֗ה

H2781

him he is a reproach

contumely, disgrace, the pudenda

לִשְׁכֵנָֽיו׃

H7934

to his neighbours

a resident; by extension, a fellow-citizen

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

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 89 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?