Psalms 68:30

KJV

Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, [till every one] submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people [that] delight in war.

KJV (with Strong's)

Rebuke {H1605}{H8798)} the company {H2416} of spearmen {H7070}, the multitude {H5712} of the bulls {H47}, with the calves {H5695} of the people {H5971}, till every one submit {H7511}{H8693)} himself with pieces {H7518} of silver {H3701}: scatter {H967}{H8765)} thou the people {H5971} that delight {H2654}{H8799)} in war {H7128}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Rebuke the wild beast of the reeds, that herd of bulls with their calves, the peoples, who ingratiate themselves with bars of silver; let him scatter the peoples who take pleasure in fighting.

Berean Standard Bible

Rebuke the beast in the reeds, the herd of bulls among the calves of the nations, until it submits, bringing bars of silver. Scatter the nations who delight in war.

American Standard Version

Rebuke the wild beast of the reeds, The multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the peoples, Trampling under foot the pieces of silver: He hath scattered the peoples that delight in war.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 68:30 presents a powerful prayer and prophetic declaration within a triumphant psalm, imploring God to assert His supreme authority over formidable, hostile forces. It vividly depicts divine intervention to "rebuke" aggressive military powers, symbolized by "spearmen" and "bulls," compelling their submission through tribute or brokenness, and ultimately scattering those who find pleasure in conflict. This verse underscores God's sovereign power to humble the proud and establish His righteous reign, bringing an end to war waged by His adversaries.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 68 is a magnificent song of triumph, often associated with the procession of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem or a celebration of a significant military victory. It opens with an echo of the ancient Mosaic blessing from [Numbers 10:35](/numbers/10-35 "Numbers 10:35 - The Lord Arises"), invoking God's divine presence to scatter His enemies. The psalm recounts God's powerful acts from Sinai to Zion, portraying Him as a divine warrior leading His people to victory and providing for them. Verse 30 intensifies the plea for God to intervene against those who oppose His kingdom, following descriptions of God's care for the needy and preceding a call for all kingdoms to sing praises to God, acknowledging His ultimate authority.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israel existed in a geopolitical landscape marked by constant threats and conflicts with surrounding nations. The imagery of "spearmen," "bulls," and "calves" likely refers to powerful, aggressive empires or their leaders and their followers who frequently challenged Israel's security and sovereignty. The concept of "pieces of silver" as a sign of submission was a common practice in the ancient Near East, where conquered nations or defeated adversaries would pay tribute or ransom to their victors, signifying their subjugation and the cessation of hostilities. This verse reflects the deep reliance of God's people on divine intervention for protection and the establishment of peace in a tumultuous world.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Psalm 68 and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights God's **divine sovereignty and authority** over all earthly powers, emphasizing His unique ability to humble the proud and bring down those who resist His will, as seen in the accounts of God's deliverance in [the Song of the Sea](/exodus/15 "Exodus 15 - The Song of the Sea"). The theme of **divine judgment** is prominent, as God is called upon to "rebuke" and "scatter" those who defy Him, demonstrating His justice against oppressors. Furthermore, the verse anticipates the establishment of **peace through divine intervention**, where the submission of enemies leads to a cessation of their aggressive actions, aligning with prophetic visions of universal peace under God's rule, such as in [Isaiah 2:4](/isaiah/2-4 "Isaiah 2:4 - Nations will learn war no more"). The broader context of [Psalm 68](/psalms/68 "Psalm 68 - God's Triumphant Procession") celebrates God as the one who rides through the heavens, bringing victory and blessing.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Rebuke (Hebrew, _gâʻar'_):** This verb (H1605) signifies a strong, authoritative reprimand or warning, often carrying the implication of bringing someone under control, silencing them, or causing them to retreat in shame. It denotes a powerful, divine intervention that actively suppresses and disarms opposition, reflecting God's absolute power to confront and dismantle forces that defy Him.
* **Bulls (Hebrew, _ʼabbîyr'_):** Literally meaning "mighty ones" or "strong ones" (H47), this term is used metaphorically here to describe powerful, untamed, and arrogant leaders or nations. It evokes images of brute strength, stubborn defiance, and a lack of control, underscoring the formidable yet ultimately conquerable nature of the enemies. This imagery suggests a wild, uncontrollable force that only God can tame.
* **Pieces of silver (Hebrew, _rats keçeph'_):** This phrase combines H7518 (_rats_, "fragment" or "piece") and H3701 (_keçeph_, "silver" or "money"). It signifies a payment of tribute or ransom as a sign of submission, often involving broken fragments of wealth. It denotes a state of brokenness, humility, and surrender, where the once-proud enemies are compelled to acknowledge their defeat and God's superior authority through a tangible act of subjugation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Rebuke the company of spearmen":** This is a direct, urgent plea to God to intervene against organized military aggression. The "company of spearmen" (H2416 _chay_ and H7070 _qâneh_) represents a formidable, well-armed, and disciplined force, indicating a significant threat that only divine power can overcome. The "rebuke" (H1605 _gâʻar_) is not merely a verbal reprimand but an active, powerful act of divine judgment that disarms and neutralizes the enemy's might.
* **"the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people":** This vivid metaphorical imagery describes the full spectrum of the enemy. The "multitude of the bulls" (H5712 _ʻêdâh_ and H47 _ʼabbîyr_) refers to the powerful, arrogant, and untamed leaders or nations, while the "calves of the people" (H5695 _ʻêgel_ and H5971 _ʻam_) represents their numerous followers, perhaps younger or less experienced, but equally aggressive and prone to conflict. This highlights the widespread and formidable nature of the opposition, from their leaders to their masses.
* **"[till every one] submit himself with pieces of silver":** This clause describes the desired outcome of God's intervention: the complete subjugation and surrender of these enemies. The act of submitting (H7511 _râphaç_) "with pieces of silver" (H7518 _rats_ and H3701 _keçeph_) signifies the payment of tribute or ransom, a common ancient Near Eastern practice to acknowledge defeat and become a vassal. It implies a state of brokenness and forced humility, where their pride is shattered, and they are compelled to acknowledge God's ultimate authority.
* **"scatter thou the people [that] delight in war":** This final plea targets those whose very nature is to instigate and prolong conflict. It is a condemnation of war-mongers, those who find pleasure (H2654 _châphêts_) in aggression and strife (H7128 _qᵉrâb_). The request to "scatter" (H967 _bâzar_) them signifies their dispersion, incapacitation, and ultimate defeat, ensuring that their destructive influence is neutralized and peace can be established.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 68:30 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of divine triumph and judgment. **Metaphor** is central, particularly in the imagery of "bulls" and "calves" to represent powerful, untamed leaders and their followers, emphasizing their brute strength and stubborn defiance. The "company of spearmen" also functions as **metonymy** for the organized military might of the enemy. The entire verse functions as a **prayer-imprecation**, a direct appeal to God for active intervention against His adversaries. The use of the **imperative mood** ("Rebuke," "scatter") underscores the urgency and directness of the psalmist's plea, highlighting God's active role as a divine warrior. There is also an implicit **parallelism** in the structure of the plea, as God is asked to act against different facets of the enemy's power—their military, their leaders, and their very inclination towards war, reinforcing the comprehensive nature of divine judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly articulates God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly powers and His unwavering commitment to justice and peace. It affirms that no human force, no matter how formidable or arrogant, can ultimately withstand the divine will. God is portrayed as the righteous judge who intervenes decisively to humble the proud and dismantle systems that perpetuate violence and oppression. While the immediate context is a plea for Israel's deliverance from physical enemies, the underlying theological principle extends to all forms of opposition to God's kingdom. His desire is not for the destruction of humanity, but for the submission of all to His righteous rule, which ultimately leads to true peace and flourishing.

* [Psalm 2:9](/psalms/2-9 "Psalm 2:9 - You shall break them with a rod of iron")
* [Isaiah 2:4](/isaiah/2-4 "Isaiah 2:4 - Nations will learn war no more")
* [Revelation 19:15](/revelation/19-15 "Revelation 19:15 - Christ's judgment on nations")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 68:30 offers profound encouragement for believers facing overwhelming opposition, whether from external forces, societal injustices, or personal spiritual battles. It reminds us that our God is not passive but actively involved in rebuking and scattering those who delight in war and oppression. This verse calls us to cultivate a deep trust in God's ultimate sovereignty, knowing that He will bring justice and peace in His time and in His way. It serves as a powerful model for prayer, urging us to intercede for divine intervention against forces that seek to disrupt peace, righteousness, and human flourishing, both globally and within our own spheres of influence. Furthermore, the call for enemies to "submit with pieces of silver" can also serve as a poignant reminder of the universal call to humble ourselves and willingly submit to God's authority, acknowledging His rightful claim over our lives and all creation. This submission, unlike the forced tribute of enemies, is a joyful surrender that brings true freedom and peace.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this psalm encourage us to view seemingly insurmountable obstacles in our lives or in the world?**
* **In what ways might we, or the forces around us, "delight in war" (conflict, division, strife), and how can we pray for God's intervention?**
* **What does it mean for us to "submit with pieces of silver" to God's will, even when it involves humility or sacrifice?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the "bulls" and "calves" imagery?**

Answer: The imagery of "bulls" and "calves" is a powerful metaphor for the enemies of God's people. "Bulls" (Hebrew: _ʼabbîyr_) symbolize powerful, arrogant, and untamed leaders or nations, representing their brute strength and stubborn defiance. "Calves" refer to their followers or younger, equally aggressive elements. Together, they paint a picture of a formidable, widespread, and inherently belligerent opposition that requires divine intervention to be subdued, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the threat.

**Does God truly "delight in war" if He scatters those who do?**

Answer: No, God does not delight in war. The psalm explicitly states "scatter thou the people [that] delight in war," clearly condemning those who find pleasure in conflict and aggression. God is ultimately a God of peace and justice, as proclaimed in [Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - Prince of Peace"). He intervenes to "scatter" such people not because He enjoys conflict, but because it is necessary to establish righteousness, peace, and order, bringing an end to the destructive actions of those who oppose His will. His actions are aimed at restoring shalom, not perpetuating strife.

**What does "submit himself with pieces of silver" mean?**

Answer: This phrase signifies complete subjugation and surrender, often through the payment of tribute or ransom. In the ancient world, defeated nations would pay silver to their conquerors as a sign of their brokenness, acknowledging their defeat and the victor's supreme authority. For the psalmist, it represents the humbling of proud enemies who are compelled to yield to God's power, signifying the cessation of their aggression and their forced acknowledgment of His dominion. It is a tangible sign of their utter defeat and the triumph of God's righteous rule.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 68:30 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the true King and Victor over all hostile powers. While the psalm's immediate context is a plea for God to subdue earthly adversaries, Christ's work extends this victory to the spiritual realm, rebuking the "company of spearmen" that are demonic forces and spiritual strongholds. Just as the psalmist prays for God to "rebuke" the enemy, Jesus demonstrated His authority over evil spirits, casting them out with a word, as recorded in [Mark 1:27](/mark/1-27 "Mark 1:27 - Jesus Rebukes Unclean Spirits"). He is the ultimate Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, but also the Lion of Judah who will ultimately bring all nations into submission. The "multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people" who delight in war will ultimately bow before Him, for [Philippians 2:10-11](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Every Knee Will Bow") declares that "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth." His sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate "pieces of silver" paid, not as tribute to an earthly conqueror, but as redemption for humanity, inviting all to willingly submit to His gracious rule. Ultimately, Christ, the Prince of Peace, will return to "scatter" all who delight in war and establish His eternal kingdom of righteousness and peace, as depicted in [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ the Rider on the White Horse"), where He rides forth to judge and make war in righteousness, bringing true and lasting peace.

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

Psalms 22:12

Many bulls have compassed me: strong [bulls] of Bashan have beset me round.

Psalms 22:13

They gaped upon me [with] their mouths, [as] a ravening and a roaring lion.

Isaiah 37:1

¶ And it came to pass, when king Hezekiah heard [it], that he rent his clothes, and covered himself with sackcloth, and went into the house of the LORD.

Isaiah 37:38

And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword; and they escaped into the land of Armenia: and Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.

2 Samuel 8:1

¶ And after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them: and David took Methegammah out of the hand of the Philistines.

2 Samuel 8:18

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada [was over] both the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and David's sons were chief rulers.

James 4:1

¶ From whence [come] wars and fightings among you? [come they] not hence, [even] of your lusts that war in your members?