Psalms 35:1

Authorized King James Version

Plead my cause, O LORD, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

רִיבָ֣ה

H7378

Plead

properly, to toss, i.e., grapple; mostly figuratively, to wrangle, i.e., hold a controversy; (by implication) to defend

יְ֭הוָה

H3068

my cause O LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

יְרִיבַ֑י

H3401

with them that strive

literally he will contend; properly, adjective contentious; used as noun, an adversary

לֹֽחֲמָֽי׃

H3898

against them that fight

to feed on; figuratively, to consume

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

לֹֽחֲמָֽי׃

H3898

against them that fight

to feed on; figuratively, to consume

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Psalms.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty 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?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?