Psalms 44:5

Authorized King James Version

Through thee will we push down our enemies: through thy name will we tread them under that rise up against us.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּ֭ךָ
H0
#2
צָרֵ֣ינוּ
our enemies
a pebble (as in h6864)
#3
נְנַגֵּ֑חַ
Through thee will we push down
to butt with the horns; figuratively, to war against
#4
בְּ֝שִׁמְךָ֗
through thy name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#5
נָב֥וּס
will we tread them under
to trample (literally or figuratively)
#6
קָמֵֽינוּ׃
that rise up
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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