Psalms 78:31

The wrath of God came upon them, and slew the fattest of them, and smote down the chosen men of Israel.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאַ֤ף

H639

The wrath

properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire

אֱלֹהִ֨ים׀

H430

of 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

עָ֘לָ֤ה

H5927

came

to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative

בָהֶ֗ם

וַֽ֭יַּהֲרֹג

H2026

upon them and slew

to smite with deadly intent

בְּמִשְׁמַנֵּיהֶ֑ם

H4924

the fattest

fat, i.e., (literally and abstractly) fatness; but usually (figuratively and concretely) a rich dish, a fertile field, a robust man

וּבַחוּרֵ֖י

H970

the chosen

properly, selected, i.e., a youth (often collective)

יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל

H3478

men of Israel

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

הִכְרִֽיעַ׃

H3766

of them and smote down

to bend the knee; by implication, to sink, to prostrate

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

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

Questions for Reflection

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?
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?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?