Psalm 64:7

But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded.

Study Bible

But God
This phrase introduces a divine intervention, contrasting human actions with God's sovereignty. The Hebrew word for "God" here is "Elohim," which emphasizes His power and majesty. Throughout the Psalms, "But God" often marks a turning point where human plans are thwarted by divine will. This phrase reassures believers that no matter the schemes of man, God remains in control and His purposes will prevail.

will shoot them
The imagery of God shooting is vivid and powerful. The Hebrew verb "yarah" is used here, which means to shoot or cast. This conveys the idea of God actively intervening against the wicked. In the historical context of ancient warfare, archery was a skill that required precision and strength, symbolizing God's precise and powerful judgment against those who oppose Him.

with arrows
Arrows in the Bible often symbolize swift and certain judgment. In the ancient Near East, arrows were a common weapon, and their use here metaphorically represents God's ability to reach and judge the wicked from a distance. This imagery assures the faithful that God's justice is not only inevitable but also inescapable for those who plot evil.

suddenly
The suddenness of God's action underscores His omnipotence and the unexpected nature of divine justice. The Hebrew word "pith'owm" conveys a sense of surprise and immediacy. This serves as a warning to the wicked that their plans can be overturned in an instant, and it comforts the righteous by reminding them that God's timing, though often mysterious, is perfect.

they will be wounded
The outcome of God's intervention is the wounding of the wicked. The Hebrew word "nakah" means to strike or smite, indicating a decisive and effective action. This phrase assures believers that God's justice is not only swift but also effective, leading to the downfall of those who oppose His will. It serves as a reminder of the ultimate triumph of righteousness over wickedness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The central figure in this verse, God is depicted as the divine warrior who intervenes on behalf of the righteous.

2. The Wicked
Though not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of Psalm 64 describes the wicked as those who plot against the righteous.

3. Arrows
Symbolic of God's judgment and swift retribution against the wicked.

4. The Righteous
Implicitly present as the ones whom God defends and vindicates.

5. Sudden Wounding
Represents the unexpected and decisive nature of God's intervention.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
God is actively involved in the affairs of humanity, ensuring that justice is served. His intervention is both timely and effective.

The Power of God’s Intervention
God's actions are decisive and cannot be thwarted by human schemes. Believers can trust in His ultimate control over all situations.

The Suddenness of God’s Judgment
God's judgment can come unexpectedly, reminding us to live righteously and be prepared for His intervention at any time.

Protection for the Righteous
While the wicked may plot against the righteous, God is their defender. This assurance should encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith.

The Symbolism of Arrows
Arrows in this context symbolize the precision and inevitability of God's judgment. Believers should take comfort in knowing that God’s justice is both accurate and unavoidable.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of God shooting arrows enhance our understanding of His role as a divine warrior?

2. In what ways can we see the suddenness of God's intervention in our own lives or in biblical history?

3. How does the assurance of God's protection influence our response to the challenges and injustices we face?

4. What are some practical ways we can prepare ourselves for God's sudden interventions in our lives?

5. How can the concept of divine justice in Psalm 64:7 be reconciled with the New Testament teachings on grace and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 7:12-13
This passage also uses the imagery of God preparing His arrows against the wicked, emphasizing divine justice.

Deuteronomy 32:23
Describes God’s arrows as instruments of His wrath, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution.

Isaiah 49:2
Speaks of God’s word as a polished arrow, highlighting the power and precision of divine action.

Ephesians 6:16
Discusses the "shield of faith" to extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one, contrasting the protective power of faith with the destructive power of God's arrows against evil.

Revelation 19:15
Describes Christ as the divine warrior who executes judgment, paralleling the imagery of God as a warrior in Psalm 64:7.