Psalms 53:5

KJV

There were they in great fear, [where] no fear was: for God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth [against] thee: thou hast put [them] to shame, because God hath despised them.

KJV (with Strong's)

There were they in great {H6343} fear {H6342}{H8804)}, where no fear {H6343} was: for God {H430} hath scattered {H6340}{H8765)} the bones {H6106} of him that encampeth {H2583}{H8802)} against thee: thou hast put them to shame {H954}{H8689)}, because God {H430} hath despised {H3988}{H8804)} them.

Complete Jewish Bible

They will be gripped with terror, even though now they are not afraid; for God will scatter the bones of him who is besieging you. You are putting them to shame, because God has rejected them.

Berean Standard Bible

There they are, overwhelmed with dread, where there was nothing to fear. For God has scattered the bones of those who besieged you. You put them to shame, for God has despised them.

American Standard Version

There were they in great fear, where no fear was; For God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth against thee: Thou hast put them to shame, because God hath rejected them.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 53:5 powerfully depicts the sudden, divinely orchestrated terror and catastrophic defeat of those who oppose God and His people. It vividly portrays a scene where adversaries, seemingly secure and without external threat, are struck with an inexplicable dread, leading to their utter humiliation and destruction. This profound reversal is attributed directly to God, who actively scatters their remains and holds their defiance in contempt, serving as a testament to divine justice and the ultimate futility of human rebellion against the Almighty.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 53 is a wisdom psalm that is almost identical to [Psalm 14](/psalms/14 "Psalm 14 - The Fool's Denial of God"), differing primarily in its use of "God" (Elohim) instead of "Lord" (Yahweh). Both psalms commence with the stark declaration that "The fool says in his heart, 'There is no God'" ([Psalms 53:1](/psalms/53-1 "Psalms 53:1 - The Fool Says There Is No God")). This foundational denial of divine authority then cascades into a description of pervasive moral corruption, including injustice, oppression of the righteous, and a complete lack of understanding or seeking after God. Verse 5 serves as the dramatic climax and divine response to this widespread depravity and rebellion. It marks a decisive shift from detailing human wickedness to proclaiming God's active intervention and judgment. The verse highlights God's sovereignty and His direct action against those who "encamp against thee," referring to the adversaries of God's people, thus unveiling the ultimate vindication for the righteous and the certain downfall of the wicked.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The imagery employed in Psalms 53:5 is deeply rooted in ancient Near Eastern warfare and societal values. The concept of an enemy being struck with "great fear, where no fear was" alludes to a supernatural panic, often referred to as a "terror of God" or "divine dread," which could cause an army to flee in complete disarray without a visible or rational threat. This phenomenon is recounted in various biblical narratives, such as the panic that seized the Philistines ([1 Samuel 14:15](/1_samuel/14-15 "1 Samuel 14:15 - A Panic from the Lord")) or the Syrians ([2 Kings 7:6](/2_kings/7-6 "2 Kings 7:6 - The Lord Made the Army Hear a Noise")). The grim phrase "scattered the bones" carries immense cultural weight, signifying absolute defeat, dishonor, and the obliteration of legacy. In ancient societies, a proper burial was paramount for dignity, remembrance, and the spiritual well-being of the deceased and their family. To have one's bones scattered, left unburied and exposed to the elements, was the ultimate indignity, signifying utter annihilation, a complete lack of respect, and the denial of any lasting memory or resting place. This was the most profound shame for a vanquished foe, implying that their very existence was utterly despised and erased by divine contempt.
* **Key Themes:** This verse profoundly contributes to several overarching themes evident throughout the Psalms and broader biblical theology. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the theme of **Divine Reversal and Judgment**. Those who confidently oppose God and His ways are suddenly overwhelmed by a terror of supernatural origin, leading to their complete and humiliating defeat. This demonstrates God's active role as an impartial judge, intervening in human affairs to uphold justice and to rectify the imbalance caused by wickedness. Secondly, the verse highlights **The Folly and Consequences of Atheism and Wickedness**. The "fool" who denies God's existence and lives in defiance of His moral order is ultimately met with God's scorn and destructive judgment. This illustrates that human arrogance, rebellion, and self-sufficiency are utterly futile when confronted by divine power and righteousness. Finally, Psalms 53:5 powerfully reinforces the theme of **God as Protector and Deliverer**. For the righteous, it offers profound assurance that God is their ultimate defender. He actively "scatters the bones" of those who threaten His people, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to justice and His capacity to deliver His chosen from oppression, as seen in His historical deliverances of Israel from their enemies, such as the miraculous victory at the Red Sea ([Exodus 14](/exodus/14 "Exodus 14 - The Crossing of the Red Sea")) or the defeat of the Amorites ([Joshua 10:10-11](/joshua/10-10-11 "Joshua 10:10-11 - The Lord Threw Down Large Stones from Heaven")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Fear (Hebrew, _pachad'_ H6343):** This term denotes a sudden, overwhelming, and often irrational terror or dread. In this context, it specifically emphasizes that the fear experienced by the adversaries was not a natural response to a visible threat but an inexplicable, divinely imposed panic. It highlights the supernatural nature of their rout, where their own confidence and military prowess were shattered by an unseen, internal collapse, signifying God's direct hand in their psychological disarray.
* **Scattered (Hebrew, _pâzar'_ H6340):** A primitive root meaning "to scatter," whether in enmity or bounty. Here, it implies a forceful and destructive dispersal, indicating that God actively broke apart and dispersed the enemies' strength and unity. Combined with "bones," it paints a picture of utter dismemberment and annihilation, leaving no coherent form or legacy.
* **Despised (Hebrew, _mâʼaç'_ H3988):** This primitive root means "to spurn," "to abhor," "to cast away," or "to reject with disdain." It is a strong verb indicating not merely anger, but a profound dismissal of the adversaries' value, actions, and very existence in God's sight. Their rebellion is so offensive that God views them with utter scorn and contempt, leading directly to their downfall because He considers them utterly worthless and deserving of His decisive judgment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"There were they in great fear, where no fear was:"** This striking antithetical phrase highlights the supernatural and inexplicable origin of the enemies' terror. Their panic was not caused by any visible army, earthly danger, or rational threat, but by an unseen, divinely instilled dread. It underscores the irrationality and overwhelming nature of their sudden rout, emphasizing that God Himself was the source of their psychological collapse and flight, demonstrating His sovereign power over the human heart and mind.
* **"for God hath scattered the bones of him that encampeth against thee:"** This clause provides the immediate reason for the enemies' fear and describes the physical outcome of God's judgment. The vivid and gruesome imagery of "scattered bones" signifies total, humiliating defeat, complete annihilation, and the denial of a proper burial. This was the ultimate indignity in ancient culture, erasing the enemy's honor, legacy, and memory. The phrase "him that encampeth against thee" refers to the adversaries who threaten God's people, establishing God's direct and protective intervention on behalf of His chosen.
* **"thou hast put them to shame, because God hath despised them."** This final clause reiterates and reinforces the consequence of God's action – the public humiliation and disgrace of the enemies. The shame is a direct and inevitable result of God's profound contempt and disdain ("despised them") for their rebellion, wickedness, and denial of His existence. God's utter rejection of their actions and character leads to their ultimate downfall, powerfully demonstrating His justice, sovereignty, and moral opposition to all who defy Him.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 53:5 masterfully employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its message of divine judgment and protection. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, starkly evident in the phrase "There were they in great fear, where no fear was." This sharp contrast emphasizes the supernatural and inexplicable nature of the enemies' terror, highlighting that their panic was not a response to any natural or visible threat but a divinely imposed psychological collapse. **Vivid Imagery** is powerfully utilized with the grim phrase "scattered the bones." This concrete and visceral image evokes a sense of complete and utter defeat, dishonor, and annihilation, painting a picture of bodies left unburied and dignity stripped away. The phrase also functions as **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the totality of their destruction beyond mere military defeat, suggesting an absolute obliteration of their very memory and legacy. Finally, the statement "God hath despised them" employs **Anthropomorphism**, attributing human emotions (contempt, disdain, scorn) to God. This device helps the reader grasp the depth of God's moral opposition and rejection of the wicked, making His judgment relatable and underscoring His profound and active disapproval of their actions and character.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 53:5 stands as a profound theological statement on God's sovereignty, justice, and unwavering commitment to His people. It reveals a God who is not a passive observer but an active participant in human history, intervening decisively to bring judgment upon the wicked and deliverance to the righteous. The inexplicable fear and total defeat of the enemies underscore the futility of human rebellion against the Almighty and affirm that true security lies not in military might or human schemes, but in God's protective hand. This divine intervention serves as a powerful reminder that while the wicked may seem to prosper for a time, their ultimate end is shame and destruction, because God resists the proud and exalts the humble. The psalm therefore offers both a stern warning to those who defy God and immense comfort to those who trust in Him, assuring them that their battles are ultimately His.

* [Psalms 14:5](/psalms/14-5 "Psalms 14:5 - God is with the Righteous Generation")
* [Proverbs 11:21](/proverbs/11-21 "Proverbs 11:21 - The Wicked Shall Not Go Unpunished")
* [Romans 12:19](/romans/12-19 "Romans 12:19 - Vengeance Belongs to the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 53:5 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, serving as both a warning and a source of immense comfort. In a world where godlessness often seems to flourish and the righteous face opposition, this verse reminds us that God remains sovereign and actively engaged in the affairs of humanity. It challenges us to examine our own hearts: do we, like the "fool" described in the psalm, live as if God does not exist, either through outright intellectual denial or through practical disregard for His commands and moral order? The ultimate shame and destruction of those who defy God should instill in us a healthy fear of the Lord and a renewed commitment to living righteously, understanding that our actions have eternal consequences. Conversely, for those who are God's people, this verse provides deep assurance and solace. When facing seemingly insurmountable opposition, or when the wicked appear to prosper and oppress, we are reminded that God sees, hears, and will ultimately intervene with perfect timing and justice. He is our ultimate protector, capable of scattering the plans and power of those who oppose His kingdom and His people. Our call is to trust in His perfect timing and unfailing justice, knowing that His judgment is sure and His deliverance is certain, even when we cannot perceive the means.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be living as if "there is no God," either through outright denial or practical disregard for His commands and sovereignty?**
* **How does the concept of God instilling "fear where no fear was" challenge my understanding of divine intervention and the unseen spiritual realities at play in the world?**
* **When I face opposition, injustice, or feel overwhelmed by the apparent success of the wicked, how does the assurance that God "scatters the bones" and "despises" His enemies strengthen my faith and patience?**
* **What practical steps can I take to live in greater alignment with God's will, trusting in His ultimate justice and protection rather than seeking my own vindication or relying on human strength?**

### FAQ

**What does "There were they in great fear, where no fear was" mean?**

Answer: This striking phrase indicates that the fear experienced by the adversaries was not a natural response to a visible or humanly discernible threat. Instead, it points to a sudden, inexplicable, and overwhelming terror that was divinely imposed. It highlights the supernatural nature of their panic and flight, suggesting that God Himself instilled this dread in them, causing them to flee in disarray even when no earthly army or danger was apparent. This concept of a "terror of God" or "divine panic" is seen elsewhere in Scripture, such as when the Lord causes panic among the enemies of Israel, as described in [Exodus 23:27](/exodus/23-27 "Exodus 23:27 - God Sends His Terror Before You") and [Joshua 10:10](/joshua/10-10 "Joshua 10:10 - The Lord Threw Them Into Confusion"). It underscores God's absolute sovereignty over human will and the power of His unseen hand.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 53:5 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who perfectly embodies God's judgment against sin and His unwavering protection for His people. The "fool" who says "there is no God" ultimately rejects the very Son who perfectly reveals God's nature and will ([John 14:9](/john/14-9 "John 14:9 - Whoever Has Seen Me Has Seen the Father")). The "great fear where no fear was" foreshadows the spiritual terror that will ultimately grip those who stand against Christ, a terror that culminates in the final judgment where every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus as Lord ([Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow and Every Tongue Confess")). The scattering of the bones of those who encamp against God's people finds its ultimate expression in Christ's decisive victory over sin, death, and the devil on the cross ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Triumphing Over Principalities and Powers")). Through His resurrection, Christ disarmed and shamed the spiritual principalities and powers, leaving them scattered and defeated. Furthermore, Christ's protection of His church ensures that "the gates of hell shall not prevail against it" ([Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hell Shall Not Prevail")), and those whom God has despised – the unrepentant and rebellious – will face the wrath of the Lamb ([Revelation 6:16](/revelation/6-16 "Revelation 6:16 - Hide Us from the Face of Him Who Is Seated on the Throne")). Thus, Psalms 53:5 points to the ultimate triumph of God's anointed King, Jesus, who will finally put all His enemies under His feet ([1 Corinthians 15:25](/1_corinthians/15-25 "1 Corinthians 15:25 - He Must Reign Until He Has Put All His Enemies Under His Feet")), bringing shame to those who defy Him and eternal security to those who trust in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 28:1

¶ The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

Leviticus 26:36

And upon them that are left [alive] of you I will send a faintness into their hearts in the lands of their enemies; and the sound of a shaken leaf shall chase them; and they shall flee, as fleeing from a sword; and they shall fall when none pursueth.

Leviticus 26:17

And I will set my face against you, and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you.

Psalms 141:7

Our bones are scattered at the grave's mouth, as when one cutteth and cleaveth [wood] upon the earth.

Jeremiah 6:30

Reprobate silver shall [men] call them, because the LORD hath rejected them.

Ezekiel 6:5

And I will lay the dead carcases of the children of Israel before their idols; and I will scatter your bones round about your altars.

Psalms 83:16

Fill their faces with shame; that they may seek thy name, O LORD.