Psalms 8:2

Authorized King James Version

Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.

Word-by-Word Analysis

מִפִּ֤י

H6310

Out of the mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

עֽוֹלְלִ֨ים׀

H5768

of babes

a suckling

וְֽיֹנְקִים֮

H3243

and sucklings

to suck; causatively, to give milk

יִסַּ֪דְתָּ֫

H3245

hast thou ordained

to set (literally or figuratively); intensively, to found; reflexively, to sit down together, i.e., settle, consult

עֹ֥ז

H5797

strength

strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)

לְמַ֥עַן

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

צוֹרְרֶ֑יךָ

H6887

because of thine enemies

to cramp, literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive

לְהַשְׁבִּ֥ית

H7673

that thou mightest still

to repose, i.e., desist from exertion; used in many implied relations (causative, figurative or specific)

א֝וֹיֵ֗ב

H341

the enemy

hating; an adversary

#10

וּמִתְנַקֵּֽם׃

H5358

and the avenger

to grudge, i.e., avenge or punish

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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 revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about worship and praise?
How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 8 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?