Psalms 60:12

Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בֵּֽאלֹהִ֥ים

H430

Through 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

נַעֲשֶׂה

H6213

we shall do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

חָ֑יִל

H2428

valiantly

probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength

וְ֝ה֗וּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

יָב֥וּס

H947

for he it is that shall tread down

to trample (literally or figuratively)

צָרֵֽינוּ׃

H6862

our enemies

a pebble (as in h6864)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 60 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?