Psalms 60:3

Thou hast shewed thy people hard things: thou hast made us to drink the wine of astonishment.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הִרְאִ֣יתָ

H7200

Thou hast shewed

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

עַמְּךָ֣

H5971

thy people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

קָשָׁ֑ה

H7186

hard things

severe (in various applications)

הִ֝שְׁקִיתָ֗נוּ

H8248

thou hast made us to drink

to quaff, i.e., (causatively) to irrigate or furnish a potion to

יַ֣יִן

H3196

the wine

wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication

תַּרְעֵלָֽה׃

H8653

of astonishment

reeling

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 covenant community contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?