Psalms 35:3
Draw out also the spear, and stop the way against them that persecute me: say unto my soul, I am thy salvation.
Original Language Analysis
וְהָ֘רֵ֤ק
Draw out
H7324
וְהָ֘רֵ֤ק
Draw out
Strong's:
H7324
Word #:
1 of 9
to pour out (literally or figuratively), i.e., empty
לִקְרַ֣את
the way against
H7125
לִקְרַ֣את
the way against
Strong's:
H7125
Word #:
4 of 9
an encountering, accidental, friendly or hostile (also adverbially, opposite)
רֹדְפָ֑י
them that persecute
H7291
רֹדְפָ֑י
them that persecute
Strong's:
H7291
Word #:
5 of 9
to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)
לְ֝נַפְשִׁ֗י
unto my soul
H5315
לְ֝נַפְשִׁ֗י
unto my soul
Strong's:
H5315
Word #:
7 of 9
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
Historical Context
In ancient warfare, blocking an enemy's path was strategic for cutting off escape or pursuit routes. David's request reflects tactical military thinking applied to spiritual warfare, trusting God to both fight and reassure.
Questions for Reflection
- What would it mean for you to hear God say 'I am your salvation' today?
- How can God's word bring assurance even while battles rage around you?
Analysis & Commentary
The Hebrew verb for 'draw out' (reyq) suggests both unsheathing a weapon and barricading a way, combining offense and defense. The petition 'say unto my soul, I am thy salvation' reveals the psalmist's deepest need—not merely deliverance from enemies but assurance of God's saving presence. The Hebrew 'yeshua' (salvation) foreshadows Christ as Yeshua, the ultimate fulfillment of God's saving word to troubled souls.