Book of Psalms - Chapter 83 - Verse 15
Meaning
When the verse 'So persecute them with thy tempest, and make them afraid with thy storm.' is examined in its context within the book of Psalms, it is clear that the speaker is calling upon God to bring justice upon their enemies. The use of the word "tempest" and "storm" metaphorically signifies a powerful force of nature that can overcome and intimidate those who oppose the speaker. This verse reflects a plea for divine intervention in the face of adversity and persecution. It signifies a belief in the power of God to bring punishment and fear to those who seek to harm the speaker. In a broader sense, this verse can be interpreted as a call for protection and deliverance from enemies, trusting in God's ultimate authority and justice.
Theological Overview
Looking at the theological interpretation of the verse 'So persecute them with thy tempest, and make them afraid with thy storm', it is crucial to understand the context in which it is written. This verse can be found in the book of Psalms, which is a collection of songs and prayers often attributed to King David. In this particular verse, the psalmist is calling out to God to bring judgment upon their enemies. The use of the words 'tempest' and 'storm' signifies a powerful and overwhelming force that the psalmist is invoking God to unleash on those who are persecuting them.
From a theological perspective, this verse highlights the idea of divine justice and God's role as a protector of his people. The psalmist trusts in God's power to intervene on their behalf and bring about justice in the face of persecution. The use of nature imagery, such as tempests and storms, emphasizes the idea of God's overwhelming might and the ability to bring about change in the most formidable circumstances.
Word studies on 'tempest' and 'storm' show that these terms are often used in the Bible to symbolize chaos, destruction, and upheaval. By calling on God to persecute their enemies with these natural elements, the psalmist is expressing a desire for God to intervene in a dramatic and decisive way. This verse serves as a reminder of the psalmist's faith in God's righteousness and willingness to defend his people in times of trouble.