Psalms 9:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 9:20
20 Put them in fear, O LORD: that the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah.
Chapter Context
Psalms 9 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, worship, discipleship. 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
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. 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 9:20
20 Put them in fear, O LORD: that the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah.
Analysis
David prays for the nations to remember their creatureliness. The Hebrew 'morah' (fear/terror) indicates holy reverence, not mere anxiety. This Reformed perspective affirms that acknowledging our humanity before God is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10) and necessary for salvation—we must know we are not God.
Historical Context
Written during a period when surrounding nations threatened Israel with military might, forgetting their accountability to Israel's God.
Reflection
- How does modern culture deny human creatureliness and dependence?
- What practices help you maintain proper fear of the Lord?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 31:3
- Parallel theme: Psalms 62:9, 76:12, Jeremiah 32:40