Psalms 91:7

Authorized King James Version

A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יִפֹּ֤ל

H5307

shall fall

to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)

מִצִּדְּךָ֙׀

H6654

at thy side

a side; figuratively, an adversary

אֶ֗לֶף

H505

A thousand

hence (the ox's head being the first letter of the alphabet, and this eventually used as a numeral) a thousand

וּרְבָבָ֥ה

H7233

and ten thousand

abundance (in number), i.e., (specifically) a myriad (whether definite or indefinite)

מִימִינֶ֑ךָ

H3225

at thy right hand

the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south

אֵ֝לֶ֗יךָ

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

יִגָּֽשׁ׃

H5066

but it shall not come nigh

to be or come (causatively, bring) near (for any purpose); euphemistically, to lie with a woman; as an enemy, to attack; religious to worship; causati

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?
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?