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Book of Psalms - Chapter 68 - Verse 12

68:12
Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Psalms describes the aftermath of a battle, where the kings of armies are in full retreat, fleeing quickly from the victorious forces. The phrase "she that tarried at home" refers to the women left behind while the men went to war. These women who stayed behind are now reaping the benefits of the victory, as they divide the spoils of war that were captured from the enemy. The verse carries a message of the unexpected nature of victory, where those who may have remained on the sidelines end up benefiting the most. It also highlights the idea of reaping rewards without necessarily having been directly involved in the struggle. The verse serves as a reminder that victory can come in unexpected ways and that those who wait patiently can also share in the spoils of success.

Theological Overview

In this verse, we see a vivid image of powerful kings of armies fleeing in haste, leaving the spoils of war behind. The phrase "she that tarried at home" likely refers to the women who remained behind while the men went off to battle. In ancient times, it was common for women to stay at home and take care of the household while the men went off to war. The act of "dividing the spoil" was a customary practice where the spoils of war were distributed among the victors as a form of reward for their efforts in battle.

From a theological perspective, this verse may serve as a reminder of the unpredictability of war and the fleeting nature of human power and strength. It highlights the idea that even the mightiest of armies can be defeated and forced to flee in the face of unexpected challenges. It also emphasizes the role of those who may not be directly involved in the physical act of battle but still play a significant part in the outcomes of war through their support and contributions. Overall, this verse encourages readers to reflect on the themes of victory, reward, and the divine providence that can be found even in the chaos and turmoil of war.

American Standard Version

Kings of armies flee, they flee; And she that tarrieth at home divideth the spoil.
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