Psalms 10:3
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 10:3
3 For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth.
Chapter Context
Psalms 10 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, judgment, holiness. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 10:3
3 For the wicked boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the LORD abhorreth.
Analysis
This verse exposes the root of wickedness: sinful desire replacing God as the ultimate good. The wicked 'blesses the greedy' (literally 'blesses the one who cuts off'), perverting blessing into cursing by celebrating covetousness. This anticipates Paul's description of those whose 'god is their belly' (Philippians 3:19). Reformed theology sees this as the natural outworking of total depravity.
Historical Context
Reflects economic injustice in ancient Israel where some accumulated wealth through exploitation, contradicting the Mosaic law's provisions for the poor.
Reflection
- What cultural narratives celebrate greed as virtue rather than vice?
- How can you identify and resist covetous desires in your own heart?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 5:6
- Blessing: Deuteronomy 29:19
- Parallel theme: Psalms 49:6, 94:4, Exodus 15:9, Job 31:24, Isaiah 37:23, Luke 12:19