What does Psalm 108:9 mean?
ESV: Moab is my washbasin; upon Edom I cast my shoe; over Philistia I shout in triumph."
NIV: Moab is my washbasin, on Edom I toss my sandal; over Philistia I shout in triumph."
NASB: Moab is My washbowl; I will throw My sandal over Edom; I will shout aloud over Philistia.'
CSB: Moab is my washbasin; I throw my sandal on Edom. I shout in triumph over Philistia."
NLT: But Moab, my washbasin, will become my servant, and I will wipe my feet on Edom and shout in triumph over Philistia.'
KJV: Moab is my washpot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe; over Philistia will I triumph.
NKJV: Moab is My washpot; Over Edom I will cast My shoe; Over Philistia I will triumph.”
Verse Commentary:
God expresses His power and authority over all lands and peoples. The regions mentioned in this passage were important in Israel's history (Psalm 108:7–8). So far, the segment has mentioned Shechem, Succoth, Gilead, Manasseh, Ephraim, and Judah. These were all territories associated with the nation of Israel, itself. What comes next are references to Israel's enemies.
This verse of the psalm copies the words of Psalm 60:8, as part of an extended reiteration of David's firm intent to maintain faith. The challenge of that moment was an invasion (Psalm 60:1–3). The attacking nation was Edom: the descendants of Israel's brother, Esau (Genesis 36:1). Part of the Lord's response is to emphasize that He and He alone has the power to determine who controls these territories. The mention of shoes implies ownership, as well (Deuteronomy 25:9; Ruth 4:8). Even today, in Middle Eastern cultures, it is considered an insult to throw a shoe at someone. God's plan for Edom was harsh.
Moab was one of the nations which arose from Lot's tragic experience after the destruction of Sodom (Genesis 19:36–37). A washbasin is a dirty, humble role; this implies something unimportant. This would contrast with Moab's cultural pride (Isaiah 16:6). Instead of a mighty, independent nation, God speaks of Moab as an unremarkable, humble tool.
The third nation mentioned is that of the Philistines. This group was a constant enemy of the Israelite people (Judges 10:7; 1 Samuel 17:1; 31:1). This enemy, too, will be overcome by the Lord.
Verse Context:
Psalm 108:6–13 is identical to Psalm 60:6–12. In these closing verses, David expresses confidence that God will triumph over Israel's foes. The people of Israel will be given the lands which God claimed to control. The psalm closes with David's prayer for God's help and assurance of His power.
Chapter Summary:
The psalmist—repeating words of David's prior psalms—first declares loyalty to the Lord. He declares that God should be worshipped by His people. Next, God's sovereign rule is celebrated. Even so, the song speaks of fears and doubts, calling on the Lord to provide aid in a dire battle. The overall sense is one of confidence and assurance in God.
Chapter Context:
This psalm combines portions of two other songs (Psalm 57:7–11; Psalm 60:5–12). Psalm 57 relates to David's attempts to evade the jealous King Saul. Psalm 60 reacts to a surprise attack from Edom. Psalm 108 borrows the conclusions of these prior messages; these emphasize a commitment to praise and honor God and to recognize His absolute rule. The psalm is "of David" because it uses his words, but this arrangement may not have been his personal doing.
Book Summary:
The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.
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