Psalm 2:7

Berean Standard Bible
I will proclaim the decree spoken to Me by the LORD: “You are My Son; today I have become Your Father.
 
King James Bible
I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee.
 
NET Bible
The king says, "I will announce the LORD's decree. He said to me: 'You are my son! This very day I have become your father!
 
Hebrew:

אֲסַפְּרָה אֶל־חֹק יְהוָה אָמַר אֵלַי בְּנִי אַתָּה אֲנִי הַיּוֹם יְלִדְתִּיךָ

 
Transliteration:
Asapperah el-ḥok Adonai, amar elay beni atah, ani hayom yelidtikha
 
****************
 
Study Bible:
 
I will proclaim the decree
This phrase introduces the speaker's intention to declare a divine decree. The Hebrew word for "proclaim" is "saphar," which means to recount or declare. In ancient times, decrees were authoritative commands issued by a king or ruler. Here, the speaker is announcing a divine decree, emphasizing the authority and unchangeable nature of God's word. This proclamation is not just a mere statement but a powerful declaration of God's sovereign will.
 
spoken to Me by the LORD
The phrase indicates that the decree comes directly from the LORD, Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. The personal nature of "spoken to Me" suggests an intimate communication between God and the speaker, often understood as the Messiah. This highlights the special relationship and divine appointment of the speaker, who is chosen and anointed by God Himself.
 
You are My Son
This declaration is central to the identity of the speaker. In the Hebrew context, "Son" signifies a unique relationship with God, often associated with kingship and divine favor. The term "Son" is also messianic, pointing to the future fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is recognized as the Son of God in the New Testament. This relationship is not just biological but deeply spiritual and covenantal.
 
today I have become Your Father
The phrase "today I have become Your Father" signifies a specific moment of divine appointment or recognition. The Hebrew word "yalad" can mean to beget or to bring forth, indicating a new phase or role. This is often interpreted as the enthronement or coronation of the king, symbolizing a new beginning in the divine plan. In Christian theology, this is seen as a prophetic reference to the resurrection and exaltation of Jesus Christ, affirming His divine sonship and authority.
 
****************
 
Commentary:
 
Divine Kingship and Messianic Expectation
Context of the Verse: Psalm 2 is often categorized as a royal psalm, associated with the coronation of Israelite kings. Verse 7, in particular, reflects the adoption formula used in the ancient Near East to legitimize a king's divine right to rule. In the immediate context, it might have originally referred to a Davidic king, who is seen as God's chosen representative on earth.
 
Messianic Interpretation: In Christian theology, Psalm 2:7 is seen as a messianic prophecy. The term "Son" here is interpreted as referring to Jesus Christ, who is acknowledged as the Son of God. The phrase "this day have I begotten thee" is understood as pointing to the resurrection of Jesus, where He is declared with power to be the Son of God (Romans 1:4).
 
Theological Implications
Adoption and Inheritance: This verse highlights the theme of divine adoption, where the king (or Christ in the Christian interpretation) is declared God's son. This adoption grants the king a special status and a promise of inheritance. In the New Testament, believers in Christ are also called children of God and co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17), extending this theme to the entire Christian community.
 
Authority and Rule: The declaration "Thou art my Son" also implies authority. The king, as God's son, rules with divine mandate. In Christian understanding, Jesus' resurrection and ascension signify His ultimate authority over heaven and earth, as affirmed in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18).
 
Literary and Historical Context
Poetic Structure: Psalm 2:7 is part of a larger poetic structure that includes a call to kings and rulers to serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling (Psalm 2:10-12). The verse is part of a divine declaration that contrasts with the rebellious plotting of nations in the earlier verses (Psalm 2:1-3).
 
Historical Background: Understanding the historical context of ancient Israel and its monarchy can shed light on the original meaning of this verse. The Israelite kings were often seen as God's anointed, serving as mediators of God's will. This historical backdrop enriches the verse's significance in both Jewish and Christian traditions.
 
Conclusion
Psalm 2:7, with its profound declaration of divine sonship, serves as a pivotal verse that bridges Jewish royal tradition and Christian messianic expectation. It underscores themes of divine authority, inheritance, and the special relationship between God and His chosen king. Whether viewed through the lens of ancient Israelite coronation rituals or Christian theological reflection, this verse continues to inspire and evoke deep spiritual reflection.