Psalm 83:7
of Gebal, Ammon, and Amalek, of Philistia with the people of Tyre.
Gebal
The mention of Gebal refers to a region or people known in ancient times, likely associated with the Phoenician city of Byblos. In the Hebrew text, "Gebal" is derived from the root word "gbl," which can mean "boundary" or "mountain." Historically, Gebal was a significant center for trade and religion, known for its skilled craftsmen and builders. The inclusion of Gebal in this verse highlights the widespread coalition against Israel, emphasizing the geographical and cultural diversity of the adversaries.

Ammon
The Ammonites were descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew, and often found themselves in conflict with Israel. The Hebrew root "ʿmm" suggests a people or nation, and the Ammonites were known for their fortified cities and strategic location east of the Jordan River. Their mention here underscores the persistent enmity and historical hostilities between Israel and its neighbors, as well as the spiritual and moral challenges Israel faced from surrounding pagan cultures.

Amalek
The Amalekites were a nomadic tribe, descendants of Esau, and notorious for their relentless opposition to Israel. The Hebrew root "ʿmlq" is associated with "dweller in the valley" or "people of prey," reflecting their reputation as fierce warriors. Biblically, Amalek represents the archetypal enemy of God's people, symbolizing the spiritual battles believers face against sin and opposition. Their inclusion in this coalition serves as a reminder of the ongoing spiritual warfare and the need for divine intervention.

Philistia
The Philistines were a significant and persistent threat to Israel, known for their advanced military technology and formidable cities along the coastal plain. The Hebrew root "plšt" is linked to "immigrant" or "invader," reflecting their origins and impact on the region. Historically, the Philistines were often in conflict with Israel, and their mention here highlights the enduring struggle between God's people and those who oppose His purposes. This serves as a metaphor for the spiritual battles believers face in standing firm against worldly influences.

with the inhabitants of Tyre
Tyre was a prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth, trade, and maritime prowess. The Hebrew root "ṣwr" can mean "rock," symbolizing strength and resilience. The inhabitants of Tyre were influential in the ancient world, and their inclusion in this verse signifies the broad alliance against Israel. Spiritually, Tyre represents the allure of materialism and the temptation to rely on human strength rather than God's provision. This phrase serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of aligning with worldly powers and the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Gebal
An ancient city and region, often associated with the Phoenicians. It was known for its skilled craftsmen and maritime trade.

2. Ammon
A nation descended from Lot, located east of the Jordan River. Historically, the Ammonites were often in conflict with Israel.

3. Amalek
A nomadic tribe, descendants of Esau, known for their longstanding enmity with Israel. They attacked the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt.

4. Philistia
A region on the southwestern coast of Canaan, inhabited by the Philistines, who were frequent adversaries of Israel.

5. Tyre
A prominent Phoenician city known for its wealth and trade. It was located on the Mediterranean coast and had complex relations with Israel.
Teaching Points
Understanding Historical Context
Recognize the historical enmity between these nations and Israel. This context helps us understand the psalmist's plea for God's intervention against Israel's enemies.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Israel faced physical enemies, Christians today face spiritual battles. Ephesians 6 reminds us to put on the full armor of God to stand against spiritual adversaries.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the alliances and threats against Israel, God remains sovereign. Trust in His ultimate control over nations and history.

Unity in Prayer
The psalmist's call for divine intervention encourages believers to unite in prayer against common spiritual challenges.

Lessons from History
Reflect on how past conflicts and resolutions in the Bible can guide us in dealing with current personal and communal challenges.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding the historical context of these nations enhance our comprehension of Psalm 83:7?

2. In what ways can the spiritual battles faced by Christians today be compared to the physical battles faced by Israel in the Old Testament?

3. How does the sovereignty of God, as seen in His dealings with Israel's enemies, provide comfort and assurance in our personal lives?

4. What practical steps can we take to unite in prayer as a community when facing spiritual challenges?

5. How can the lessons learned from the conflicts between Israel and its neighbors be applied to resolving conflicts in our own lives?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 19
Provides background on the origins of the Ammonites, tracing them back to Lot.

Exodus 17
Describes the Amalekites' attack on the Israelites, highlighting their role as persistent enemies.

1 Samuel 17
Illustrates the conflict between Israel and the Philistines, notably the account of David and Goliath.

Ezekiel 26
Prophesies the downfall of Tyre, emphasizing its pride and eventual judgment.
An Appeal to HeavenHomilistPsalm 83:1-18
Mental Tendencies in Relation to GodHomilistPsalm 83:1-18
Soul SpoilersS. Conway Psalm 83:1-18
What God is to His PeopleC. Short Psalm 83:1-18
People
Amalek, Asaph, Hagarites, Hagrites, Ishmaelites, Jabin, Korah, Midianites, Oreb, Psalmist, Sisera, Zalmunna, Zebah, Zeeb
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Amalek, Am'alek, Ammon, Gebal, Inhabitants, Philistia, Philistines, Tyre
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Psalm 83:3-8

     8728   enemies, of Israel and Judah

Psalm 83:5-8

     5205   alliance
     5817   conspiracies

Library
Period ii. The Church from the Permanent Division of the Empire Until the Collapse of the Western Empire and the First Schism Between the East and the West, or Until About A. D. 500
In the second period of the history of the Church under the Christian Empire, the Church, although existing in two divisions of the Empire and experiencing very different political fortunes, may still be regarded as forming a whole. The theological controversies distracting the Church, although different in the two halves of the Graeco-Roman world, were felt to some extent in both divisions of the Empire and not merely in the one in which they were principally fought out; and in the condemnation
Joseph Cullen Ayer Jr., Ph.D.—A Source Book for Ancient Church History

Question Lxxxi of the virtue of Religion
I. Does the Virtue of Religion Direct a Man To God Alone? S. Augustine, sermon, cccxxxiv. 3 " on Psalm lxxvi. 32 sermon, cccxi. 14-15 II. Is Religion a Virtue? III. Is Religion One Virtue? IV. Is Religion a Special Virtue Distinct From Others? V. Is Religion One of the Theological Virtues? VI. Is Religion To Be Preferred To the Other Moral Virtues? VII. Has Religion, Or Latria, Any External Acts? S. Augustine, of Care for the Dead, V. VIII. Is Religion the Same As Sanctity? Cardinal Cajetan,
St. Thomas Aquinas—On Prayer and The Contemplative Life

Epistle xxxii. To Anastasius, Presbyter .
To Anastasius, Presbyter [1714] . Gregory to Anastasius, &c. That a good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth good things (Matth. xii. 35; Luke vi. 45), this thy Charity has shewn, both in thy habitual life and lately also in thy epistle; wherein I find two persons at issue with regard to virtues; that is to say, thyself contending for charity, and another for fear and humility. And, though occupied with many things, though ignorant of the Greek language, I have nevertheless sat
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Being Made Archbishop of Armagh, He Suffers Many Troubles. Peace Being Made, from Being Archbishop of Armagh He Becomes Bishop of Down.
[Sidenote: 1129] 19. (12). Meanwhile[365] it happened that Archbishop Cellach[366] fell sick: he it was who ordained Malachy deacon, presbyter and bishop: and knowing that he was dying he made a sort of testament[367] to the effect that Malachy ought to succeed him,[368] because none seemed worthier to be bishop of the first see. This he gave in charge to those who were present, this he commanded to the absent, this to the two kings of Munster[369] and to the magnates of the land he specially enjoined
H. J. Lawlor—St. Bernard of Clairvaux's Life of St. Malachy of Armagh

Epistle cxxi. To Leander, Bishop of Hispalis (Seville).
To Leander, Bishop of Hispalis (Seville). Gregory to Leander, Bishop of Spain. I have the epistle of thy Holiness, written with the pen of charity alone. For what the tongue transferred to the paper had got its tincture from the heart. Good and wise men were present when it was read, and at once their bowels were stirred with emotion. Everyone began to seize thee in his heart with the hand of love, for that in that epistle the sweetness of thy disposition was not to be heard, but seen. All severally
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

The Third Commandment
Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain: For the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.' Exod 20: 7. This commandment has two parts: 1. A negative expressed, that we must not take God's name in vain; that is, cast any reflections and dishonour on his name. 2. An affirmative implied. That we should take care to reverence and honour his name. Of this latter I shall speak more fully, under the first petition in the Lord's Prayer, Hallowed be thy name.' I shall
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Question Lxxxiii of Prayer
I. Is Prayer an Act of the Appetitive Powers? Cardinal Cajetan, On Prayer based on Friendship II. Is it Fitting to Pray? Cardinal Cajetan, On Prayer as a True Cause S. Augustine, On the Sermon on the Mount, II. iii. 14 " On the Gift of Perseverance, vii. 15 III. Is Prayer an Act of the Virtue of Religion? Cardinal Cajetan, On the Humility of Prayer S. Augustine, On Psalm cii. 10 " Of the Gift of Perseverance, xvi. 39 IV. Ought We to Pray to God Alone? S. Augustine, Sermon, cxxvii. 2 V.
St. Thomas Aquinas—On Prayer and The Contemplative Life

Psalms
The piety of the Old Testament Church is reflected with more clearness and variety in the Psalter than in any other book of the Old Testament. It constitutes the response of the Church to the divine demands of prophecy, and, in a less degree, of law; or, rather, it expresses those emotions and aspirations of the universal heart which lie deeper than any formal demand. It is the speech of the soul face to face with God. Its words are as simple and unaffected as human words can be, for it is the genius
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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