Psalms 62:10
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 62:10
10 Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart upon them.
Chapter Context
Psalms 62 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, salvation, righteousness. 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
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 62:10
10 Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart upon them.
Analysis
The warning against trusting in oppression and robbery identifies two temptations—using power unjustly or accumulating wealth wickedly. 'Become not vain in robbery' warns that ill-gotten gains produce emptiness. The caution about riches increasing ('if riches increase, set not your heart upon them') addresses prosperity's spiritual danger, anticipating Christ's warnings about wealth's deceitfulness (Mark 4:19).
Historical Context
David's rise to power involved resisting temptations to seize the kingdom through violence (1 Samuel 24:4-7, 26:8-11). His restraint demonstrated trust in God's timing rather than human expedience.
Reflection
- What forms of oppression and robbery tempt those with power in modern contexts?
- How can you steward increasing resources without 'setting your heart' on them?
Cross-References
- Faith: Psalms 49:6, 52:7, Isaiah 30:12, 1 Timothy 6:10, 6:17
- Parallel theme: Job 20:19, 20:29, Isaiah 61:8, Jeremiah 17:11, Mark 10:23