King James Version

What Does Psalms 76:3 Mean?

“There brake he the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword, and the battle. Selah.”

Context

To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm or Song of Asaph. In Judah is God known: his name is great in Israel. of: or, for

In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.

There brake he the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword, and the battle. Selah.

Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey.

The stouthearted are spoiled, they have slept their sleep: and none of the men of might have found their hands.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(3) **There.**—This word in Psalm 14:5 does not appear to have a strictly definite local sense; and here may refer to time, possibly to some event, which we are not able with certainty to recover. **Arrows.**—Literally, flashes. (See Note, Song of Solomon 8:6.) The image may be derived from the lightning speed of the flight of arrows, or from the custom of shooting bolts tipped with flame (see Note, Psalm 7:13), or the connection may be from the metaphor in Psalm 91:5-6, since the Hebrew word here used denotes pestilence in Habakkuk 3:5. **The shield, the sword, and the battle**—Hosea 2:18 is the original of this. (Comp. Psalm 46:9.) Notice the fine poetic touch in the climactic use of battle to sum up all the weapons of war.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

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 76:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.