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Book of Psalms - Chapter 56 - Verse 2

56:2
Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High.

Meaning

In this verse, the psalmist expresses the intense and overwhelming feeling of being constantly threatened by enemies. The phrase "Mine enemies would daily swallow me up" conveys a sense of constant danger and vulnerability. The psalmist feels like they are being consumed or overwhelmed by these enemies on a daily basis. The following statement "for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High" emphasizes the severity of the situation, with the psalmist acknowledging the multitude of enemies that are arrayed against them. The psalmist seeks divine intervention and protection from God, referred to as "thou most High", recognizing that only God has the power to deliver them from such a threatening and perilous situation. This verse reflects the psalmist's plea for help and their unwavering trust in God's ultimate authority and protection.

Theological Overview

When examining the theological implications of this verse, it becomes clear that the psalmist is in a state of distress, feeling overwhelmed by the number of enemies who are actively seeking to harm him. The use of the word "swallow" conveys a sense of being consumed or destroyed by these adversaries. It highlights the severity of the situation and the urgent need for divine intervention. By addressing God as "O thou most High," the psalmist acknowledges God's supremacy and power over all earthly forces, expressing trust in His ability to deliver him from the threat posed by his enemies.

In terms of word studies, the phrase "most High" is translated from the Hebrew word "Elyon," which signifies the highest or supreme position. This name for God emphasizes His exalted status above all created beings and his sovereignty over all things. The psalmist's use of this title reflects a recognition of God's unmatched authority and ability to protect and rescue him from his enemies. It serves as a reminder of God's ultimate power and the psalmist's reliance on Him in the face of adversity.

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