Psalms 18:42

Authorized King James Version

Then did I beat them small as the dust before the wind: I did cast them out as the dirt in the streets.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְֽאֶשְׁחָקֵ֗ם

H7833

Then did I beat

to comminate (by trituration or attrition)

כְּעָפָ֥ר

H6083

them small as the dust

dust (as powdered or gray); hence, clay, earth, mud

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

פְּנֵי

H6440

before

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

ר֑וּחַ

H7307

the wind

wind; by resemblance breath, i.e., a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the

כְּטִ֖יט

H2916

as the dirt

mud or clay; figuratively, calamity

חוּצ֣וֹת

H2351

in the streets

properly, separate by a wall, i.e., outside, outdoors

אֲרִיקֵֽם׃

H7324

I did cast them out

to pour out (literally or figuratively), i.e., empty

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?