Psalms 68:1

Authorized King James Version

Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

יָק֣וּם

H6965

arise

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

אֱ֭לֹהִים

H430

Let 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

יָפ֣וּצוּ

H6327

be scattered

to dash in pieces, literally or figuratively (especially to disperse)

אוֹיְבָ֑יו

H341

let his enemies

hating; an adversary

וְיָנ֥וּסוּ

H5127

him flee

to flit, i.e., vanish away (subside, escape; causatively, chase, impel, deliver)

מְ֝שַׂנְאָ֗יו

H8130

let them also that hate

to hate (personally)

מִפָּנָֽיו׃

H6440

before

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

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 might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?