Psalms 73:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 73:27
27 For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.
Chapter Context
Psalms 73 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, mercy, prayer. 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 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-28: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 73:27
27 For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.
Analysis
The contrast with verse 25's devotion is stark: 'For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish; thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.' Distance from God means destruction. 'Go a whoring' uses adultery imagery for idolatry—loving anything more than God. This spiritual adultery warrants judgment. The psalm resolves: proximity to God brings life (v. 28); distance brings death. Eternal destinies hinge on relationship with God. Christ is the only way to the Father (John 14:6); those who reject Him remain 'far off' and perish.
Historical Context
Throughout Israel's history, spiritual adultery (idolatry) resulted in judgment—exile, foreign oppression, plague. Hosea's marriage illustrated God's faithfulness despite Israel's whoredom. Only through Christ can spiritual adultery be forgiven and intimacy restored.
Reflection
- What does it mean to be 'far from' God versus near to Him?
- How is loving anything more than God a form of spiritual adultery?
- What assurance do you have through Christ that you won't perish but have eternal life in God's presence?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 106:39, 119:155, Exodus 34:15, Numbers 15:39, James 4:4