Psalms 68:30
Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, till every one submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people that delight in war.
Original Language Analysis
חַיַּ֪ת
the company
H2416
חַיַּ֪ת
the company
Strong's:
H2416
Word #:
2 of 14
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin
קָנֶ֡ה
of spearmen
H7070
קָנֶ֡ה
of spearmen
Strong's:
H7070
Word #:
3 of 14
a reed (as erect); by resemblance a rod (especially for measuring), shaft, tube, stem, the radius (of the arm), beam (of a steelyard)
עֲדַ֤ת
the multitude
H5712
עֲדַ֤ת
the multitude
Strong's:
H5712
Word #:
4 of 14
a stated assemblage (specifically, a concourse, or generally, a family or crowd)
בְּעֶגְלֵ֬י
with the calves
H5695
בְּעֶגְלֵ֬י
with the calves
Strong's:
H5695
Word #:
6 of 14
a (male) calf (as frisking round), especially one nearly grown (i.e., a steer)
עַ֝מִּ֗ים
of the people
H5971
עַ֝מִּ֗ים
of the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
7 of 14
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
כָ֑סֶף
of silver
H3701
כָ֑סֶף
of silver
Strong's:
H3701
Word #:
10 of 14
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
Historical Context
Israel frequently faced invasion from militaristic empires (Assyria, Babylon, Rome). This psalm affirms God's ultimate judgment on warlike nations and vindication of His peaceful purposes.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's rebuke of those who 'delight in war' speak to contemporary military aggression and violence?
- What 'bulls' (powerful forces) in your life need God's subduing hand?
- How can you be a peacemaker in a world that delights in conflict and division?
Analysis & Commentary
The 'company of spearmen' and 'multitude of bulls with calves' represent aggressive military powers and wealthy nations—both are rebuked. God scatters 'people that delight in war,' showing His opposition to those who love violence and conquest. Submission with 'pieces of silver' indicates tribute from conquered nations. God humbles proud powers, establishing His peaceful kingdom—ultimately through Christ, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).