Psalms 83:6

"The tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites; Moab, and the Hagrites;"

Key Reflection

In the context of Psalms 83:6, the original audience would have recognized these groups as neighboring tribes and kingdoms to Israel, known for their historical conflicts and alliances. The mention of Edom, Ishmaelites, Moab, and Hagrites reflects the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding ancient Israel, highlighting the Psalmist's plea for divine protection against multiple adversaries who posed a collective threat to Israel’s security and sovereignty.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

The tabernacles of Edom -The tents of Edom; meaning here, the dwellers in those tents, that is, the Edomites. The word tabernacles or tents does not necessarily imply that the nation then led a wandering life, for the word came to signify in process of time a dwelling-place, or a habitation. The Edomites were not, in fact, a roving and wandering people, but a people of fixed boundaries. In early periods, however, like most ancient people, they doubtless dwelt in tents. Edom, or Idumea, was south of Palestine. See the notes atIsaiah 11:14. And the Ishmaelites -The descendants of Ishmael. They dwelt in Arabia Deserta. Of Moab -On the situation of Moab, see the notes atIsaiah 15:1-9.

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