Psalms 74:18

Authorized King James Version

Remember this, that the enemy hath reproached, O LORD, and that the foolish people have blasphemed thy name.

Word-by-Word Analysis

זְכָר

H2142

Remember

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

זֹ֗את

H2063

this (often used adverb)

א֭וֹיֵב

H341

this that the enemy

hating; an adversary

חֵרֵ֣ף׀

H2778

hath reproached

to pull off, i.e., (by implication) to expose (as by stripping); specifically, to betroth (as if a surrender); figuratively, to carp at, i.e., defame;

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

O LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

וְעַ֥ם

H5971

people

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

נָ֝בָ֗ל

H5036

and that the foolish

stupid; wicked (especially impious)

נִֽאֲצ֥וּ

H5006

have blasphemed

to scorn; or (in ecclesiastes 12:5), by interchange for h5132, to bloom

שְׁמֶֽךָ׃

H8034

thy name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
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?