King James Version

What Does Psalms 18:38 Mean?

Psalms 18:38 in the King James Version says “I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet. — study this verse from Psalms chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet.

Psalms 18:38 · KJV


Context

36

Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip. my feet: Heb. mine ankles

37

I have pursued mine enemies, and overtaken them: neither did I turn again till they were consumed.

38

I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet.

39

For thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle: thou hast subdued under me those that rose up against me. subdued: Heb. caused to bow

40

Thou hast also given me the necks of mine enemies; that I might destroy them that hate me.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
David struck down enemies so they could not rise, falling under his feet. The Hebrew 'machats' (struck/shattered) indicates devastating defeat. Enemies under feet imagery appears throughout Scripture symbolizing complete subjugation (Joshua 10:24, Psalm 110:1). This anticipates Christ's enemies made His footstool (Hebrews 10:13) and believers reigning with Him (Revelation 5:10). God grants His people triumph over opposition.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Victory language common in ancient Near Eastern royal inscriptions, here applied to David's God-given military success establishing a secure kingdom.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you experience Christ's victory over enemies that once defeated you?
  2. What does it mean to reign with Christ in your current circumstances?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 7 words
אֶ֭מְחָצֵם1 of 7

I have wounded

H4272

to dash asunder; by implication, to crush, smash or violently plunge; figuratively, to subdue or destroy

וְלֹא2 of 7
H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יֻ֣כְלוּ3 of 7

them that they were not able

H3201

to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)

ק֑וּם4 of 7

to rise

H6965

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

יִ֝פְּל֗וּ5 of 7

they are fallen

H5307

to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)

תַּ֣חַת6 of 7
H8478

the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc

רַגְלָֽי׃7 of 7

under my feet

H7272

a foot (as used in walking); by implication, a step; by euphemistically the pudenda


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 18:38 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 18:38 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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