Psalms 75:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 75:5
5 Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck.
Chapter Context
Psalms 75 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, prayer, truth. 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 6-10: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 75:5
5 Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck.
Analysis
God continues His warning: "Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck" (Hebrew al-tarimu la-marom qarn-kem t-dab-ru b-tzavvar ataq). "Lift not up your horn" repeats verse 4's warning against pride. "Stiff neck" adds verbal arrogance to postural pride. Ancient Near Eastern imagery: raised horn = aggressive pride, stiff neck = refusal to submit. The verse warns that arrogant words accompany proud attitudes. Speech reveals heart condition.
Historical Context
Israel was repeatedly called "stiff-necked" for covenant rebellion (Exodus 32:9, 33:3,5, Deuteronomy 9:6,13). The phrase indicates stubborn refusal to yield to God's authority. Proverbs 16:18 warns pride precedes destruction. James 3:1-12 addresses tongue's power for good or evil. Acts 7:51 applies this: "You stiff-necked people...always resist the Holy Spirit." Pride expresses itself verbally.
Reflection
- How do your words reveal pride or humility in your heart?
- What does "stiff neck" (refusal to bow before God) look like practically in modern life?
- How did Christ's humility in speech and action (never grasping or boasting) model proper use of words?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 32:9, Deuteronomy 31:27, 2 Chronicles 30:8, Isaiah 48:4, Ezekiel 2:4, Acts 7:51