Psalms 137:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 137:7
7 Remember, O LORD, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem; who said, Rase it, rase it, even to the foundation thereof.
Chapter Context
Psalms 137 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of prayer, discipleship, love. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-9: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 137:7
7 Remember, O LORD, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem; who said, Rase it, rase it, even to the foundation thereof.
Analysis
Remember, O LORD, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem (זְכֹר יְהוָה לִבְנֵי אֱדוֹם אֵת יוֹם יְרוּשָׁלִָם)—The imprecatory cry for justice. Zakhor (remember) invokes God's attention to Edom's betrayal. Yom Yerushalaim (the day of Jerusalem) refers to 586 BC when Babylon destroyed the city. Who said, Rase it, rase it, even to the foundation thereof (הָאֹמְרִים עָרוּ עָרוּ עַד הַיְסוֹד בָּהּ)—aru (strip bare/demolish) repeated intensifies the violence. Edom, Israel's brother-nation (descended from Esau), cheered Jerusalem's destruction.
Obadiah and Ezekiel 35 prophesy Edom's judgment for this betrayal. The imprecation isn't personal vendetta but covenant justice—God must vindicate His reputation and judge treachery. Romans 12:19 forbids personal vengeance while affirming divine wrath.
Historical Context
Edom occupied land south of the Dead Sea, perpetually in conflict with Israel despite kinship (Genesis 25-36). During Babylon's siege, Edomites aided attackers, cut off escapees (Obadiah 11-14), and plundered ruins. This infamous betrayal became shorthand for ultimate treachery—brother turning on brother in catastrophe.
Reflection
- How do you process rage at betrayal—and what's the difference between imprecatory prayer and sinful revenge?
- When have you experienced 'Edomite' Christians who rejoiced in your downfall?
- What does it mean to entrust justice to God while still naming evil clearly and honestly?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Psalms 74:18, Exodus 17:14, 1 Samuel 15:2, Amos 1:11
- Parallel theme: Ezekiel 35:2, Hosea 7:2, Habakkuk 3:13