Psalms 53:5

Authorized King James Version

There were they in great fear, where no fear was: for God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth against thee: thou hast put them to shame, because God hath despised them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שָׁ֤ם׀

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

פָּ֥חֲדוּ

H6342

fear

to be startled (by a sudden alarm); hence, to fear in general

פָ֥חַד

H6343

There were they in great

a (sudden) alarm (properly, the object feared, by implication, the feeling)

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הָ֪יָה֫

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

פָ֥חַד

H6343

There were they in great

a (sudden) alarm (properly, the object feared, by implication, the feeling)

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אֱלֹהִ֥ים

H430

because God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

פִּ֭זַּר

H6340

hath scattered

to scatter, whether in enmity or bounty

#10

עַצְמ֣וֹת

H6106

the bones

a bone (as strong); by extension, the body; figuratively, the substance, i.e., (as pron.) selfsame

#11

חֹנָ֑ךְ

H2583

of him that encampeth

properly, to incline; by implication, to decline (of the slanting rays of evening); specifically, to pitch a tent; generally to encamp (for abode or s

#12

הֱ֝בִשֹׁ֗תָה

H954

against thee thou hast put them to shame

properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed

#13

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#14

אֱלֹהִ֥ים

H430

because God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

#15

מְאָסָֽם׃

H3988

hath despised

to spurn; also (intransitively) to disappear

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?