Psalms 92:10

Authorized King James Version

But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַתָּ֣רֶם
shalt thou exalt
to be high actively, to rise or raise (in various applications, literally or figuratively)
#2
כִּרְאֵ֣ים
like the horn of an unicorn
a wild bull (from its conspicuousness)
#3
קַרְנִ֑י
But my horn
a horn (as projecting); by implication, a flask, cornet; by resemblance. an elephant's tooth (i.e., ivory), a corner (of the altar), a peak (of a moun
#4
בַּ֝לֹּתִ֗י
I shall be anointed
to overflow (specifically with oil.); by implication, to mix; to fodder
#5
בְּשֶׁ֣מֶן
oil
grease, especially liquid (as from the olive, often perfumed); figuratively, richness
#6
רַעֲנָֽן׃
with fresh
verdant; by analogy, new; figuratively, prosperous

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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