(The Lord speaking is red text)
All that pass by the way spoil him: he is a reproach to his neighbours.
All who pass by plunder him; he is an object of scorn to his neighbors.
All who pass by plunder him; he has become a reproach to his neighbors.
All that pass by the way rob him: He is become a reproach to his neighbors.
All that pass by{H5674}{H8802)} the way{H1870} spoil{H8155}{H8804)} him: he is a reproach{H2781} to his neighbours{H7934}.
Psalm 89:41 is part of a larger psalm attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite, which is a lament that reflects on the Davidic covenant and God's promises to David. The psalm begins with praise for God's faithfulness and might but shifts to a lament over the apparent abandonment of the Davidic king, likely written during a time of national crisis or when the monarchy was under threat.
The verse "All that pass by the way spoil him: he is a reproach to his neighbours" speaks to the humiliation and distress of the anointed king of Israel. The language suggests that the king has become a target for plunder and ridicule by those who were once his subjects or allies. This implies a significant reversal of fortune, where the king, who should have been honored and respected, is now treated with contempt and disdain. The "spoiling" indicates that his enemies are taking advantage of his weakened state, stripping him of his possessions and dignity.
Historically, this verse could reflect periods during the divided monarchy when Israel or Judah was under attack, or when the king was deposed or taken into exile. It might also allude to the broader theme of the suffering servant, which is echoed in other parts of the Hebrew Bible, particularly in the book of Isaiah. The neighbors' reproach underscores the public nature of the king's downfall, highlighting the shame associated with his misfortune and the loss of prestige for the nation as a whole.
In summary, Psalm 89:41 captures a moment of deep national and royal despair, where the once-exalted king of Israel has fallen into such disgrace that he is now mocked and plundered by those around him, signaling a stark contrast to the glorious reign promised to David's line. This verse reflects the broader themes of the psalm, which grapples with the tension between God's covenantal promises and the stark realities of historical setbacks and personal suffering.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)