Psalms 58:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 58:2
2 Yea, in heart ye work wickedness; ye weigh the violence of your hands in the earth.
Chapter Context
Psalms 58 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, obedience, salvation. 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 6-11: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 58:2
2 Yea, in heart ye work wickedness; ye weigh the violence of your hands in the earth.
Analysis
The contrast between speaking justice (v.1) and working wickedness 'in heart' reveals that sin originates internally before manifesting in action (Mark 7:21-23). 'Weigh the violence of your hands' uses courtroom imagery—judges who should weigh evidence instead weigh out (dispense) violence. This inversion of justice anticipates eschatological judgment where earthly judges face divine scrutiny.
Historical Context
Ancient judges literally used balances/scales, making the metaphor vivid. Corrupt judges accepting bribes (Exodus 23:8) or showing partiality (Leviticus 19:15) violated covenant law, warranting the prophetic denunciation this psalm represents.
Reflection
- How does heart wickedness manifest in institutional injustice?
- What does God's judgment of judges reveal about standards for those in authority?
Cross-References
- Evil: Psalms 21:11, Ecclesiastes 3:16, Malachi 3:15
- Parallel theme: Psalms 94:20, Isaiah 10:1, 26:7, Ezekiel 22:12, 22:27