Psalms 74:11

"How long, God, shall the adversary reproach? Shall the enemy blaspheme your name forever?"

Key Reflection

In the ancient Near East, it was common for enemies and adversaries to taunt and curse gods, using their perceived lack of divine protection as a weapon in conflict. Psalm 74:11 captures this sentiment, where the psalmist asks God why He allows such insults and blasphemy from those who oppose Him. The original audience would have understood this as a plea for divine intervention to stop the enemies' mockery, recognizing that such behavior could undermine faith among the people of Israel.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Why withdrawest thou thy hand, even thy right hand? -Why dost thou not stretch forth thy hand for our deliverance? The hand, especially the right hand, is the instrument by which we wield a sword, or strike a blow; and the expression here is equivalent to asking why God did not interfere and save them. Pluck it out of thy bosom -As if God had hidden his hand beneath the folds of his garment, or had wrapped his robe tightly around him. It “seemed” as if he had done this, as if he looked calmly on, and saw the temple fired, the synagogues burned up, the land laid waste, and the people slaughtered, without an attempt to interpose.

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