Psalms 83:6

Authorized King James Version

The tabernacles of Edom, and the Ishmaelites; of Moab, and the Hagarenes;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָהֳלֵ֣י
The tabernacles
a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)
#2
אֱ֭דוֹם
of Edom
edom, the elder twin-brother of jacob; hence the region (idumaea) occupied by him
#3
וְיִשְׁמְעֵאלִ֗ים
and the Ishmaelites
a jishmaelite or descendant of jishmael
#4
מוֹאָ֥ב
of Moab
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants
#5
וְהַגְרִֽים׃
and the Hagarenes
a hagrite or member of a certain arabian clan

Analysis

This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of divine revelation reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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