Psalms 73:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 73:9
9 They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
Chapter Context
Psalms 73 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, holiness, redemption. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 73:9
9 They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.
Analysis
Setting their mouth 'against the heavens' means blaspheming God directly. Their tongue 'walketh through the earth' suggests pervasive influence—their evil speech spreads everywhere. This describes comprehensive rebellion: vertical (against God) and horizontal (corrupting society). Their words violate both tables of the law. Yet God's truth will ultimately silence all blasphemy (Revelation 21:8), and every tongue will confess Christ's lordship (Philippians 2:11).
Historical Context
Totalitarian regimes throughout history exemplify this pattern: official atheism or idolatry (mouths against heaven) combined with propaganda corrupting entire societies (tongues walking through earth).
Reflection
- How do you respond to cultural blasphemy and mockery of God without becoming bitter or vengeful?
- What does it mean that wicked speech 'walks through the earth'—how does evil influence spread?
- How can Christians speak truth in societies where mouths are set against heaven?
Word Studies
- Heaven: שָׁמַיִם (Shamayim) H8064 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: James 3:6, Revelation 13:6