Psalms 35:2

"By David. Contend, LORD, with those who contend with me. Fight against those who fight against me."

Key Reflection

Psalms 35:2 is a powerful cry for divine intervention and justice. In this verse, the psalmist David appeals to God to stand up in his defense against his adversaries, using the imagery of combat. The psalmist sees his enemies as those who are waging a spiritual war against him, and thus he begs God to intervene as a warrior on his behalf, ensuring that they face divine judgment for their actions. This verse reflects the cultural context of David's time, where personal conflicts often had significant political implications, emphasizing the importance of divine protection and justice in the face of such challenges.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Take hold of shield and buckler -That is, Arm thyself as if for the contest. It is a prayer, in a new form, that God would interpose, and that he would go forth as a warrior against the enemies of the psalmist. On the word “shield,” see the notes atPsalms 5:12. Compare the notes atEphesians 6:16. On the word “buckler,” see the notes atPsalms 18:2. These terms are derived from the armor of a warrior, and the prayer here is that God would appear in that character for his defense. And stand up for my help -As a warrior stands up, or stands firm, to arrest the attack of an enemy.

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