King James Version

What Does Psalms 68:12 Mean?

Psalms 68:12 in the King James Version says “Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil. did: Heb. did flee, did flee” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 68 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil. did: Heb. did flee, did flee”

Psalms 68:12 · KJV

Context

10

Thy congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor.

11

The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it. company: Heb. army

12

Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil. did: Heb. did flee, did flee

13

Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.

14

When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Salmon. in it: or, for her, she

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Kings of armies fleeing before God's power depicts divine victory over overwhelming opposition. 'She that tarried at home divided the spoil' means even those who didn't fight share in the victory—God's triumph benefits all His people, not just frontline warriors. This democratization of blessing reflects grace: salvation's benefits flow to all believers through Christ's victory, not our own efforts (Ephesians 2:8-9).

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Historical & Cultural Context

After military victories, plunder was distributed among all Israelites, including non-combatants (Numbers 31:27, 1 Samuel 30:24). This ensured God's entire community benefited from His deliverance, not just the strong or brave.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does sharing in Christ's victory without contributing to it illustrate salvation by grace alone?
  2. In what ways can you celebrate and enjoy spiritual blessings you didn't personally earn?
  3. How should the church ensure all members benefit from God's work, not just visible leaders?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 8 words
מַלְכֵ֣י1 of 8

“Kings”

H4428

a king

צְ֭בָאוֹת2 of 8

“of armies”

H6635

a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci

יִדֹּד֑וּן3 of 8

“apace”

H5074

properly, to wave to and fro (rarely to flap up and down); figuratively, to rove, flee, or (causatively) to drive away

יִדֹּד֑וּן4 of 8

“apace”

H5074

properly, to wave to and fro (rarely to flap up and down); figuratively, to rove, flee, or (causatively) to drive away

וּנְוַת5 of 8

“and she that tarried”

H5116

(adjectively) at home; hence (by implication of satisfaction) lovely; also (noun) a home, of god (temple), men (residence), flocks (pasture), or wild

בַּ֝֗יִת6 of 8

“at home”

H1004

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

תְּחַלֵּ֥ק7 of 8

“divided”

H2505

to be smooth (figuratively)

שָׁלָֽל׃8 of 8

“the spoil”

H7998

booty

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 68:12 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 68:12 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Joshua 10:16Judges 5:19Joshua 12:7-241 Samuel 30:24Joshua 10:42Revelation 6:15

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