Psalms 35:2

Authorized King James Version

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Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for mine help.

Original Language Analysis

הַחֲזֵ֣ק Take hold H2388
הַחֲזֵ֣ק Take hold
Strong's: H2388
Word #: 1 of 5
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
מָגֵ֣ן of shield H4043
מָגֵ֣ן of shield
Strong's: H4043
Word #: 2 of 5
a shield (i.e., the small one or buckler); figuratively, a protector; also the scaly hide of the crocodile
וְצִנָּ֑ה and buckler H6793
וְצִנָּ֑ה and buckler
Strong's: H6793
Word #: 3 of 5
a (large) shield (as if guarding by prickliness)
וְ֝ק֗וּמָה and stand up H6965
וְ֝ק֗וּמָה and stand up
Strong's: H6965
Word #: 4 of 5
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
בְּעֶזְרָתִֽי׃ for mine help H5833
בְּעֶזְרָתִֽי׃ for mine help
Strong's: H5833
Word #: 5 of 5
aid

Analysis & Commentary

The military imagery of shield and buckler (a smaller shield worn on the arm) portrays God as the divine warrior fighting on behalf of His people. This reflects the Hebrew understanding of Yahweh Sabaoth ('LORD of hosts'), emphasizing God's active intervention in defense of the righteous. The call for God to 'stand up' anthropomorphically depicts divine action, showing that prayer moves the sovereign God to act.

Historical Context

Written by David, likely during the period of Saul's persecution or Absalom's rebellion when enemies sought his life. Ancient Near Eastern warfare heavily relied on defensive armor, making the shield metaphor immediately resonant with the original audience.

Questions for Reflection