Psalms 90:6

Authorized King James Version

In the morning it flourisheth, and groweth up; in the evening it is cut down, and withereth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בַּ֭בֹּקֶר

H1242

In the morning

properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning

יָצִ֣יץ

H6692

it flourisheth

to twinkle, i.e., glance

וְחָלָ֑ף

H2498

and groweth up

properly, to slide by, i.e., (by implication) to hasten away, pass on, spring up, pierce or change

לָ֝עֶ֗רֶב

H6153

in the evening

dusk

יְמוֹלֵ֥ל

H4135

it is cut down

to cut short, i.e., curtail (specifically the prepuce, i.e., to circumcise); by implication, to blunt; figuratively, to destroy

וְיָבֵֽשׁ׃

H3001

and withereth

to be ashamed, confused or disappointed; also (as failing) to dry up (as water) or wither (as herbage)

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 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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
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?