Psalms 108:10

Context

Psalms 108 is a psalm of praise and prayer for victory, largely compiled from two earlier psalms: Psalms 57:7-11 (forming the first part of Psalms 108) and Psalms 60:5-12 (forming the latter part, including this verse). Specifically, Psalms 108:10 is a direct quote from Psalms 60:9.

The historical backdrop for Psalms 60 (and thus 108) is a time of significant military struggle for Israel, likely against their traditional enemies, particularly the Edomites. Edom, located south-east of Judah, was a formidable adversary. Their territory was known for its rugged, mountainous terrain and naturally fortified cities. The "strong city" likely refers to a well-defended Edomite stronghold, perhaps Sela (modern Petra), which was considered incredibly difficult to conquer. The psalmist, possibly King David, laments the apparent withdrawal of God's favor and asks for His intervention in battle, expressing a deep reliance on divine aid.

Key Themes

• Human Helplessness and Divine Necessity: The rhetorical questions, "Who will bring me into the strong city? who will lead me into Edom?" powerfully highlight the psalmist's recognition that human strength and strategy alone are utterly insufficient to overcome formidable obstacles. It implicitly points to God as the only one capable of granting victory and leading His people through seemingly impenetrable challenges. This theme is central to understanding the ultimate triumph promised in Psalms 108:13.
• Conquest of Edom as a Symbol: Edom often symbolizes any seemingly unconquerable foe or obstacle that stands in the way of God's people. The prayer for entry into Edom reflects Israel's desire for dominion and security from a long-standing enemy, echoing prophecies concerning Edom's eventual subjugation.
• Dependence on God for Victory: Despite the daunting challenge presented by the "strong city" and the nation of Edom, the psalmist expresses a profound confidence that God will ultimately lead them to victory. This verse sets up the powerful declaration of faith and trust in God's omnipotence that follows in the psalm.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "strong city" is 'ir mivtsar (עִיר מִבְצָר), which literally translates to "city of fortress" or "fortified city." This term emphasizes the impregnable nature of the target, underscoring the immense difficulty of capturing it. The interrogative "Who?" (mi - מִי) is a powerful rhetorical question. It is not asked out of genuine ignorance, but rather to underscore the impossibility of the task by human means alone, thereby elevating God as the sole provider of aid and the ultimate source of strength.

Practical Application

Psalms 108:10 offers a timeless and profound lesson for believers today:

• Acknowledging Our Limitations: We often face "strong cities" or "Edoms" in our own lives – seemingly insurmountable challenges, entrenched habits, difficult relationships, chronic problems, or spiritual battles that feel impossible to overcome. This verse reminds us to acknowledge our own limitations and the futility of relying solely on our own strength, wisdom, or resources.
• Seeking Divine Intervention: Just as the psalmist looked to God for leadership into Edom, we are called to seek God's guidance and strength in facing our obstacles. It encourages a posture of prayerful dependence, trusting that God can achieve what seems impossible to us. When we ask, "Who will bring me through this?" the answer, by faith, should always be God.
• Confidence in God's Power: Even when the path ahead seems daunting, this verse, within the larger context of Psalms 108, inspires confidence that with God, victory is possible. It echoes the sentiment that "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." It encourages us to look beyond our immediate circumstances to the unfailing power of the Almighty.