Psalms 44:13
Thou makest us a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and a derision to them that are round about us.
Original Language Analysis
תְּשִׂימֵ֣נוּ
Thou makest
H7760
תְּשִׂימֵ֣נוּ
Thou makest
Strong's:
H7760
Word #:
1 of 6
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
לִשְׁכֵנֵ֑ינוּ
to our neighbours
H7934
לִשְׁכֵנֵ֑ינוּ
to our neighbours
Strong's:
H7934
Word #:
3 of 6
a resident; by extension, a fellow-citizen
Historical Context
Surrounding nations like Edom, Moab, and Ammon historically rejoiced at Israel's misfortunes. Their mockery challenged Israel's claim to be Yahweh's chosen people and suggested Yahweh was weaker than their gods.
Questions for Reflection
- How does being mocked for our faith compound suffering?
- What responsibility do God's people have for His reputation among watching unbelievers?
Analysis & Commentary
Public humiliation compounds military defeat: 'Thou makest us a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and a derision to them that are round about us.' Israel's neighbors, often covenant enemies, now mock the nation that claimed special relationship with the Almighty. The watching world judges God by His people's circumstances.