Psalms 68:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 68:2
2 As smoke is driven away, so drive them away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God.
Chapter Context
Psalms 68 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, mercy, grace. 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 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-35: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 68:2
2 As smoke is driven away, so drive them away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God.
Analysis
The imagery of smoke driven away and wax melting before fire depicts the total inability of God's enemies to withstand His presence. 'Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered' echoes Numbers 10:35, the prayer when the ark moved forward. Smoke disperses helplessly before wind; wax loses all form before heat—so the wicked perish before God's holiness. This isn't vindictive delight in destruction but affirmation that evil cannot coexist with absolute holiness and justice.
Historical Context
Psalm 68 likely accompanied the ark's procession, celebrating God's victories over Israel's enemies. The vivid imagery would have resonated with Israelites who witnessed God's judgments on Egypt, Canaan, and successive oppressors.
Reflection
- How does the certainty of God's ultimate triumph over evil provide comfort when wickedness seems to prevail?
- What does it mean that evil 'melts' before God's presence—how does His holiness actively oppose sin?
- In what ways should this vision of God's power over His enemies shape your prayers and spiritual warfare?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Evil: Psalms 37:20, Isaiah 9:18
- Parallel theme: Psalms 80:16, 97:5, Hosea 13:3, Micah 1:4