King James Version
What Does Psalms 44:10 Mean?
“Thou makest us to turn back from the enemy: and they which hate us spoil for themselves.”
Psalms 44:10 · KJV
Context
8
In God we boast all the day long, and praise thy name for ever. Selah.
9
But thou hast cast off, and put us to shame; and goest not forth with our armies.
10
Thou makest us to turn back from the enemy: and they which hate us spoil for themselves.
11
Thou hast given us like sheep appointed for meat; and hast scattered us among the heathen. like: Heb. as sheep of meat
12
Thou sellest thy people for nought, and dost not increase thy wealth by their price. for: Heb. without riches
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryRetreat replaces victory: 'Thou makest us to turn back from the enemy.' Those who hate Israel now 'spoil for themselves'--taking plunder that should have been Israel's. The reversal is complete: instead of pushing down enemies (v.5), they are pushed back; instead of putting foes to shame (v.7), they experience shame.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
Military defeat meant not only casualties but economic devastation as conquering armies plundered livestock, crops, and valuables. The spoiling represented both material loss and theological crisis.
Reflection Questions
- How does experiencing reversal of expected outcomes challenge our theology?
- What does it reveal that the psalmist attributes even defeat to God's action?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 7 wordsתְּשִׁיבֵ֣נוּ1 of 7
“Thou makest us to turn”
H7725to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
אָ֭חוֹר2 of 7
“back”
H268the hinder part; hence (adverb) behind, backward; also (as facing north) the west
לָֽמוֹ׃7 of 7
H0Study 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 44:10 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 44:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge