Psalms 60:1
O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again.
Original Language Analysis
אֱ֭לֹהִים
O God
H430
אֱ֭לֹהִים
O God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
1 of 6
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
פְרַצְתָּ֑נוּ
thou hast scattered
H6555
פְרַצְתָּ֑נוּ
thou hast scattered
Strong's:
H6555
Word #:
3 of 6
to break out (in many applications, direct and indirect, literal and figurative)
אָ֝נַ֗פְתָּ
us thou hast been displeased
H599
אָ֝נַ֗פְתָּ
us thou hast been displeased
Strong's:
H599
Word #:
4 of 6
to breathe hard, i.e., be enraged
Cross References
2 Samuel 8:3David smote also Hadadezer, the son of Rehob, king of Zobah, as he went to recover his border at the river Euphrates.2 Samuel 5:20And David came to Baal-perazim, and David smote them there, and said, The LORD hath broken forth upon mine enemies before me, as the breach of waters. Therefore he called the name of that place Baal-perazim.1 Chronicles 18:3And David smote Hadarezer king of Zobah unto Hamath, as he went to stablish his dominion by the river Euphrates.
Historical Context
The superscription references conflicts with Aram-naharaim and Aram-zobah (2 Samuel 8:3-8), suggesting initial military setbacks before eventual victory. This shows God sometimes allows temporary defeat to humble His people before granting victory.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's disciplinary displeasure with His people differ from His wrath against the wicked?
- What role do temporary defeats play in God's formation of His people's character?
Analysis & Commentary
God's casting off and scattering His people seems contradictory to covenant promises, yet God's displeasure serves disciplinary purpose. The Hebrew 'parats' (scatter/break down) appears in judgment contexts but also anticipates gathering. 'O turn thyself to us again' appeals for covenant renewal, demonstrating that judgment on God's people differs from judgment on the wicked—it aims at restoration.