King James Version
What Does Psalms 45:7 Mean?
“Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.”
Context
5
Thine arrows are sharp in the heart of the king's enemies; whereby the people fall under thee.
6
Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom is a right sceptre.
7
Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.
8
All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad.
9
Kings' daughters were among thy honourable women: upon thy right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(7) **The oil of gladness.**—Comp. “oil of joy,” Isaiah 61:3. Here too it may be merely employed as a figure of happiness, but the bath and, no doubt, subsequent anointing, formed part of the Oriental marriage proceedings. (See *Arabian Nights, passim.*)
**Fellows**—*i.e.*, the *paranymphs, *or attendants on the bridegroom.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Psalms 45:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Psalms 45:7
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge