Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart upon them.
Don't put your trust in taking advantage of others, and don't become proud through stealing or dishonest gain. If you become wealthy, don't let your heart become attached to your riches.
The writer is warning us not to trust in dishonest ways of getting ahead or to let wealth become the center of our lives.
📚 Historical Context
This psalm is attributed to David, who experienced both poverty as a shepherd and great wealth as king, giving him unique insight into the dangers of both oppression and riches. In ancient Israel, the temptation for rulers and the wealthy to exploit the poor was common, as social safety nets were limited. David likely wrote this as both personal reflection and royal wisdom about the corrupting influence of power and wealth.
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