What does Psalm 120:4 mean?
ESV: A warrior 's sharp arrows, with glowing coals of the broom tree!
NIV: He will punish you with a warrior’s sharp arrows, with burning coals of the broom bush.
NASB: Sharp arrows of the warrior, With the burning coals of the broom tree!
CSB: A warrior’s sharp arrows with burning charcoal!
NLT: You will be pierced with sharp arrows and burned with glowing coals.
KJV: Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper.
NKJV: Sharp arrows of the warrior, With coals of the broom tree!
Verse Commentary:
Verse Context:
Psalm 120:3–4 explores what the psalmist believes will happen (Psalm 5:6) to those who lie (Psalm 120:2). The reference to arrows may imply war; this psalm mentions Meshech (Psalm 120:5) which may have been at odds with Assyria. Broom tree wood was known for making especially hot—and long-burning—coals. This imagery suggests pain and suffering (Psalm 11:6; 140:10; Proverbs 6:28).
Chapter Summary:
The psalmist refers to his prayers for protection against lies and liars, hoping the deceptive ones will experience judgment. This is depicted in the form of arrows and burning coals. The writer is currently traveling among the people of Kedar and Meshech, whom he seems to associate with dishonesty and violence.
Chapter Context:
Fifteen psalms (Psalms 120—134) are labeled as "a song of ascents.” These are believed to have been used when people traveled to Jerusalem for festivals; this meant going “up” to Mount Zion (2 Samuel 5:7; 1 Kings 8:1). This particular song suggests someone who could not attend the feast because he lived too far away. Meshech (Genesis 10:2) was possibly in modern-day Turkey and seems to have been violently at war with Assyria.
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.
Accessed 11/21/2024 10:30:37 PM
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