Psalms 44:6

Authorized King James Version

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For I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me.

Original Language Analysis

כִּ֤י H3588
כִּ֤י
Strong's: H3588
Word #: 1 of 7
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
לֹ֣א H3808
לֹ֣א
Strong's: H3808
Word #: 2 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
בְקַשְׁתִּ֣י in my bow H7198
בְקַשְׁתִּ֣י in my bow
Strong's: H7198
Word #: 3 of 7
a bow, for shooting (hence, figuratively, strength) or the iris
אֶבְטָ֑ח For I will not trust H982
אֶבְטָ֑ח For I will not trust
Strong's: H982
Word #: 4 of 7
properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
וְ֝חַרְבִּ֗י neither shall my sword H2719
וְ֝חַרְבִּ֗י neither shall my sword
Strong's: H2719
Word #: 5 of 7
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
לֹ֣א H3808
לֹ֣א
Strong's: H3808
Word #: 6 of 7
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תוֹשִׁיעֵֽנִי׃ save H3467
תוֹשִׁיעֵֽנִי׃ save
Strong's: H3467
Word #: 7 of 7
properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

Analysis & Commentary

The psalmist explicitly rejects reliance on human weaponry: 'I will not trust in my bow, neither shall my sword save me.' This confession, surprising from warriors, acknowledges that military equipment is merely instrumental. Without God's empowerment, the finest weapons are useless; with it, even the weakest prevail.

Historical Context

This verse echoes David's confrontation with Goliath, where he explicitly rejected Saul's armor and declared, 'The LORD saveth not with sword and spear' (1 Samuel 17:47). Trust in weapons versus trust in God is a persistent biblical theme.

Questions for Reflection