Psalms 22:18
They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture.
Original Language Analysis
וְעַל
H5921
וְעַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
4 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
לְ֝בוּשִׁ֗י
upon my vesture
H3830
לְ֝בוּשִׁ֗י
upon my vesture
Strong's:
H3830
Word #:
5 of 7
a garment (literally or figuratively); by implication (euphemistically) a wife
Cross References
Matthew 27:35And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.Luke 23:34Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.Mark 15:24And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.
Historical Context
Roman soldiers had the right to divide executed criminals' possessions. John notes they fulfilled this psalm 'that the Scripture might be fulfilled' (John 19:24), recognizing divine orchestration in seemingly mundane details.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the fulfillment of specific prophecy strengthen your faith in Scripture's reliability?
- What does God's attention to details in redemptive history teach about His care for details in your life?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
This prophecy was literally fulfilled when Roman soldiers divided Jesus' garments and cast lots for His robe (John 19:23-24). Written 1000 years before crucifixion and Rome's dominance, this verse demonstrates Scripture's divine inspiration. From a Reformed perspective, every detail of Christ's suffering was foreordained and prophesied, showing God's sovereign plan of redemption was determined before the foundation of the world (Eph. 1:4). Nothing about the cross was accidental.