Psalms 9:15

Authorized King James Version

The heathen are sunk down in the pit that they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
טָבְע֣וּ
are sunk down
to sink
#2
ג֭וֹיִם
The heathen
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
#3
בְּשַׁ֣חַת
in the pit
a pit (especially as a trap); figuratively, destruction
#4
עָשׂ֑וּ
that they made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
בְּרֶֽשֶׁת
in the net
a net (as catching animals)
#6
ז֥וּ
which
this or that
#7
טָ֝מָ֗נוּ
they hid
to hide (by covering over)
#8
נִלְכְּדָ֥ה
taken
to catch (in a net, trap or pit); generally, to capture or occupy; also to choose (by lot); figuratively, to cohere
#9
רַגְלָֽם׃
is their own foot
a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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. 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