Psalms 90:11

Authorized King James Version

Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, so is thy wrath.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִֽי
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#2
י֭וֹדֵעַ
Who knoweth
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#3
עֹ֣ז
the power
strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)
#4
אַפֶּ֑ךָ
of thine anger
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire
#5
וּ֝כְיִרְאָתְךָ֗
even according to thy fear
fear (also used as infinitive); morally, reverence
#6
עֶבְרָתֶֽךָ׃
so is thy wrath
an outburst of passion

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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