Psalms 149:7
To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people;
Original Language Analysis
לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת
To execute
H6213
לַעֲשׂ֣וֹת
To execute
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 5
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
בַּגּוֹיִ֑ם
upon the heathen
H1471
בַּגּוֹיִ֑ם
upon the heathen
Strong's:
H1471
Word #:
3 of 5
a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts
Historical Context
Israel was God's judgment instrument on Canaanite nations (Genesis 15:16). God later used Assyria/Babylon to judge Israel. Ultimate judgment belongs to God.
Questions for Reflection
- How do Christians apply imprecatory psalms given NT teaching on enemies?
- What's the relationship between spiritual warfare and prayers for judgment?
- How does Christ's return ultimately fulfill vengeance psalms?
Analysis & Commentary
To execute vengeance upon the heathen, and punishments upon the people. Celebrates God empowering people to execute judgment. This isn't personal revenge but covenantal warfare where Israel acts as God's instrument (Deuteronomy 7). Christians apply spiritually—warfare against spiritual forces (Ephesians 6:12), with final judgment at Christ's return.