Psalms 76:3

KJV

There brake he the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword, and the battle. Selah.

KJV (with Strong's)

There brake {H7665}{H8765)} he the arrows {H7565} of the bow {H7198}, the shield {H4043}, and the sword {H2719}, and the battle {H4421}. Selah {H5542}.

Complete Jewish Bible

There he broke the flashing arrows, the shield, the sword, and the weapons of war. (Selah)

Berean Standard Bible

There He shattered the flaming arrows, the shield and sword and weapons of war. Selah

American Standard Version

There he brake the arrows of the bow; The shield, and the sword, and the battle. [Selah

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 76:3 is a powerful declaration of God's absolute and decisive victory over all opposing forces. It vividly portrays the Lord's instantaneous and overwhelming power to dismantle the instruments of war—arrows, shields, and swords—and to bring an abrupt, complete end to conflict itself. This verse showcases God's supreme authority as the divine warrior, the ultimate peace-bringer, and the invincible defender of His people, illustrating His ability to unilaterally disarm and defeat any earthly adversary.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 76 is a psalm of thanksgiving and praise, likely composed to commemorate a significant act of divine deliverance for Judah or Jerusalem. It opens by declaring God's renown and presence in Judah and Salem (Jerusalem) in [Psalms 76:1-2](/psalms/76-1-2 "Psalms 76:1-2 - God's Renown in Judah and Salem"). Verse 3 serves as a climactic and vivid illustration, immediately following the establishment of God's dwelling in Zion, demonstrating the manner of His intervention. This verse is the concrete evidence of the power implied in the preceding verses. The subsequent verses, such as [Psalms 76:4-6](/psalms/76-4-6 "Psalms 76:4-6 - God's Majesty and Judgment"), continue to extol God's majesty, power, and judgment over the proud and the mighty, reinforcing the theme of His invincibility demonstrated in verse 3. The "Selah" at the end of the verse invites profound reflection on this astounding display of divine power, marking it as a pivotal statement within the psalm's narrative of God's triumph.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** While the precise historical event is not named, the most widely accepted backdrop for Psalm 76 is the miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian army under King Sennacherib during the reign of King Hezekiah, around 701 BC. The Assyrian Empire was the dominant superpower of the ancient Near East, renowned for its ruthless military might, advanced siege warfare, and psychological intimidation. King Sennacherib had besieged Jerusalem, seemingly ensuring its inevitable fall, but the biblical accounts in [2 Kings 19:35](/2_kings/19-35 "2 Kings 19:35 - The Angel of the LORD Strikes the Assyrians") and [Isaiah 37:36](/isaiah/37-36 "Isaiah 37:36 - The Destruction of Sennacherib's Army") describe how an angel of the Lord struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers in a single night, forcing Sennacherib's humiliating retreat. This unprecedented event perfectly aligns with the psalm's depiction of God's sudden and complete dismantling of enemy military power, showcasing Him as the ultimate defender of His covenant people against overwhelming human might and demonstrating His unique sovereignty over the most formidable empires of the ancient world.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 76:3 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Psalter and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores **Divine Sovereignty in Conflict**, portraying God not as a distant observer but as an active, decisive participant who can instantaneously disarm and defeat any earthly foe, regardless of their perceived strength. This highlights His absolute control over human history and warfare, a theme powerfully echoed in [Psalms 115:3](/psalms/115-3 "Psalms 115:3 - God's Sovereignty in Heaven and Earth"). Secondly, the verse powerfully establishes **God as Protector and Deliverer** of His people. When human strength and defenses fail, God's power is revealed as invincible, providing ultimate security and salvation, as seen in the declaration "The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer" in [Psalms 18:2](/psalms/18-2 "Psalms 18:2 - The LORD as My Rock and Fortress"). Thirdly, the breaking of "arrows," "shield," and "sword" vividly symbolizes **The Futility of Human Warfare Against God**. All human military might, strategies, and weaponry are rendered utterly useless and impotent when confronted by the Lord's presence and power, a truth also conveyed in [Proverbs 21:30](/proverbs/21-30 "Proverbs 21:30 - No Wisdom Against the LORD"). Finally, the phrase "and the battle" suggests that God not only destroys the instruments of war but also brings about the **Cessation of Battle** itself, ushering in peace. This points to God's ultimate desire for shalom and His unique ability to establish it, foreshadowing the messianic age of peace described in [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6-7 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace and His Everlasting Kingdom").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Brake (Hebrew, _shâbar'_):** This verb, שָׁבַר (H7665, _shâbar_), is a primitive root meaning "to burst (literally or figuratively); break (down, off, in pieces, up), broken (-hearted), crush, destroy." It implies a complete and utter destruction, not merely damage or rendering something inoperative, but shattering it beyond repair. In the context of warfare, it signifies rendering weapons entirely useless and demolishing the very capacity for war. The use of _shâbar_ here emphasizes the totality and finality of God's action; He doesn't just disarm the enemy, He utterly demolishes their means of offense and defense, reflecting an overwhelming and decisive victory.
* **Battle (Hebrew, _milchâmâh'_):** This noun, מִלְחָמָה (H4421, _milchâmâh_), derives from a root meaning "to fight" and refers to "a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., warfare)." Its inclusion after the specific weapons is highly significant. It indicates that God's power extends beyond merely destroying physical instruments; He brings an end to the entire conflict, the engagement itself. This highlights God's ultimate control not just over the tools of war, but over the very circumstances of conflict, demonstrating His ability to bring hostilities to an immediate and complete cessation.
* **Selah (Hebrew, _çelâh'_):** This enigmatic term, סֶלָה (H5542, _çelâh_), is derived from a root meaning "suspension (of music), i.e. pause." While its precise meaning is debated, it is widely understood as a musical or liturgical notation, likely indicating a pause for reflection, contemplation, or a musical interlude. In Psalms 76:3, following such a profound declaration of God's power, "Selah" functions as an emphatic exclamation point, inviting the reader or worshiper to pause and meditate deeply on the astounding and awe-inspiring truth just stated: God's unparalleled ability to unilaterally end conflict and dismantle all opposition. It calls for a moment of reverent silence to absorb the magnitude of divine intervention.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"There brake he":** The adverb "there" points to a specific, divinely chosen location, likely Jerusalem or Zion (as established in [Psalms 76:1-2](/psalms/76-1-2 "Psalms 76:1-2 - God's Renown and Dwelling")), emphasizing that God's decisive action occurred precisely where His people were threatened. The pronoun "he" unmistakably refers to God, highlighting His direct, personal, and sovereign intervention. The verb "brake" (Hebrew: _shâbar_) conveys the instantaneous, violent, and complete nature of His destructive power against the enemy's military might.
* **"the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword":** This phrase lists key instruments of ancient warfare, representing the full spectrum of military capabilities. "Arrows of the bow" denote long-range offensive capabilities, while "shield" and "sword" represent defensive and close-combat offensive weaponry, respectively. By specifying these, the psalmist uses **synecdoche/metonymy** to signify the entirety of the enemy's military arsenal and their capacity for both attack and defense. God's action renders every aspect of their war-making ability null and void, demonstrating His comprehensive victory.
* **"and the battle":** This final phrase is particularly significant and climactic. It suggests that God not only destroys the physical weapons but also brings an end to the very conflict, the "battle" (Hebrew: _milchâmâh_), itself. This indicates God's power extends beyond merely disarming; He can halt the entire engagement, bringing an immediate cessation to hostilities and establishing peace. This elevates His power beyond mere military might to ultimate control over circumstances and the very course of human events.
* **"Selah.":** As discussed in Key Word Analysis, this serves as a liturgical pause, urging the reader or worshiper to absorb the magnitude of God's intervention and to reflect on His supreme power, His awe-inspiring victory, and the profound implications of His sovereignty over all earthly conflict.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 76:3 is rich in literary devices that amplify its powerful message and underscore the divine triumph. The most prominent is **Metonymy** (or **Synecdoche**), where specific instruments of war ("arrows of the bow," "shield," and "sword") stand in for the entire military force and the act of warfare itself. This allows for a concise yet comprehensive depiction of God's complete dismantling of the enemy's power. Closely related is **Symbolism**, as these broken weapons symbolize the utter futility, impotence, and ultimate destruction of human might when it presumes to oppose divine power. The declaration "There brake he..." carries a strong sense of **Dramatic Irony**, contrasting the meticulous preparations, formidable strength, and overwhelming numbers of human armies with the effortless, instantaneous, and devastating destruction wrought by God. The direct and forceful verb "brake" also contributes to the **Vivid Imagery**, painting a clear mental picture of shattered weaponry and a halted conflict, emphasizing the suddenness and totality of God's intervention. Finally, the abrupt cessation of the listed items with the climactic "and the battle" creates a powerful sense of **Climax**, indicating that God's power extends beyond mere physical objects to the very essence of conflict, bringing it to an absolute and final end.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 76:3 stands as a profound theological statement on God's omnipotence, His active involvement in human affairs, and His unwavering faithfulness to His covenant people. It asserts that God is not merely a distant deity but a sovereign warrior who intervenes decisively to protect His own and to humble the proud. This specific act of "breaking" the instruments of war and ending "the battle" demonstrates His absolute control over the forces of chaos and conflict, revealing Him as the ultimate source of peace and security. It underscores the biblical truth that no human power, no matter how formidable, can stand against the Lord of Hosts. This divine intervention serves as a powerful reminder that ultimate victory and deliverance belong to God alone, fostering a deep sense of trust and awe in His character and capabilities, and inviting His people to rest in His sovereign protection rather than their own strength.

This verse resonates with other scriptures that depict God as a mighty warrior and deliverer:
* [Exodus 15:3](/exodus/15-3 "Exodus 15:3 - The LORD is a Warrior")
* [Psalms 46:9](/psalms/46-9 "Psalms 46:9 - God Makes Wars Cease")
* [Isaiah 2:4](/isaiah/2-4 "Isaiah 2:4 - Swords into Plowshares")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 76:3 offers profound encouragement and a vital reorientation for believers navigating the complexities of life. In a world often dominated by conflict, fear, and overwhelming challenges—whether personal, spiritual, or societal—this verse serves as a powerful anchor. It reminds us that our God is not passive but actively engaged, possessing the ultimate power to dismantle any "weapon" formed against us and to bring an end to any "battle" that threatens to consume us. This calls us to shift our reliance from human strength, strategic planning, or worldly resources to the invincible might of the Lord. When facing spiritual attacks, overwhelming anxieties, relational strife, or seemingly insurmountable obstacles, we are invited to trust that the same God who shattered Sennacherib's army can break the power of sin, overcome despair, and bring peace to our chaotic circumstances. Our ultimate hope and security are found not in our own defenses or capabilities, but in His divine intervention and sovereign control, which is always for the good of His people and the glory of His name.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "weapons" or "battles" in your life currently feel overwhelming, and how does the truth of God's power in Psalms 76:3 encourage you to surrender them to Him?**
* **How does remembering God's past acts of deliverance, both in biblical history and in your own life, strengthen your faith in His ability to intervene today?**
* **In what ways might you be tempted to rely on your own "shields" or "swords" (e.g., self-reliance, control, worldly strategies) rather than trusting in God's sovereign power to bring an end to conflict and establish His peace?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of "Selah" in this verse?**

Answer: "Selah" (סֶלָה, H5542) is a common musical or liturgical notation found throughout the Psalms, typically indicating a pause for reflection, contemplation, or a musical interlude. In [Psalms 76:3](/psalms/76-3 "Psalms 76:3 - God's Breaking of Weapons"), its placement after the declaration of God's powerful intervention ("There brake he the arrows of the bow, the shield, and the sword, and the battle") is highly significant. It serves as an emphatic cue for the reader or worshiper to pause and deeply consider the profound truth just stated. It encourages meditation on the astounding nature of God's power to unilaterally dismantle all military might and bring an end to conflict, reinforcing the awe and reverence due to such a mighty God. It's a call to let the weight of God's sovereignty sink into the heart and mind.

**Does this verse mean God will always intervene militarily for His people?**

Answer: While [Psalms 76:3](/psalms/76-3 "Psalms 76:3 - God's Breaking of Weapons") certainly highlights God's capacity for direct military intervention, especially in the context of the Sennacherib invasion, it's crucial to interpret it within the broader scope of biblical theology. This verse primarily emphasizes God's ultimate sovereignty over all earthly powers and His ability to deliver His people through various means. God's deliverance is not always through physical warfare; it can also be through spiritual victory, providential circumstances, or even through suffering that leads to greater spiritual good and conformity to Christ. The core message is that God is the ultimate Protector and Deliverer, and no opposition can ultimately thwart His purposes for His people. Believers are called to trust in His sovereign power and wisdom, knowing that He will always act in accordance with His perfect will and covenant faithfulness, whether through dramatic intervention or through quiet, sustained grace, always for His glory and our ultimate good.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 76:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the psalm describes God's breaking of physical weapons and ending earthly battles, Christ's mission was to confront and decisively defeat the spiritual enemies of humanity: sin, death, and the devil. On the cross, Jesus, the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), endured the ultimate "battle" against the powers of darkness. Through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, He "disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross" ([Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Powers")). He broke the "arrows" of condemnation by bearing our judgment, the "shield" of legalism by fulfilling the law, and the "sword" of Satan's dominion by conquering death itself. Indeed, through His sacrifice, He "destroyed him who has the power of death, that is, the devil" ([Hebrews 2:14](/hebrews/2-14 "Hebrews 2:14 - Christ Destroys the Devil's Power")). The "battle" that Christ ended was the cosmic war between humanity and God, ushering in an era of profound peace and reconciliation for all who believe in Him ([Romans 5:1](/romans/5-1 "Romans 5:1 - Peace with God Through Faith")). Ultimately, Christ is the [Prince of Peace](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - The Prince of Peace"), and His future return will bring the final and complete cessation of all conflict, when He will truly "make wars cease to the end of the earth" ([Psalms 46:9](/psalms/46-9 "Psalms 46:9 - God Makes Wars Cease")) and establish His eternal kingdom of righteousness and peace, fulfilling the prophetic vision of a world where swords are beaten into plowshares ([Isaiah 2:4](/isaiah/2-4 "Isaiah 2:4 - Swords into Plowshares")).

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 46:9

He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.

Ezekiel 39:3

And I will smite thy bow out of thy left hand, and will cause thine arrows to fall out of thy right hand.

Ezekiel 39:4

Thou shalt fall upon the mountains of Israel, thou, and all thy bands, and the people that [is] with thee: I will give thee unto the ravenous birds of every sort, and [to] the beasts of the field to be devoured.

Ezekiel 39:9

And they that dwell in the cities of Israel shall go forth, and shall set on fire and burn the weapons, both the shields and the bucklers, the bows and the arrows, and the handstaves, and the spears, and they shall burn them with fire seven years:

Ezekiel 39:10

So that they shall take no wood out of the field, neither cut down [any] out of the forests; for they shall burn the weapons with fire: and they shall spoil those that spoiled them, and rob those that robbed them, saith the Lord GOD.

2 Chronicles 32:21

And the LORD sent an angel, which cut off all the mighty men of valour, and the leaders and captains in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land. And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came forth of his own bowels slew him there with the sword.

2 Chronicles 20:25

And when Jehoshaphat and his people came to take away the spoil of them, they found among them in abundance both riches with the dead bodies, and precious jewels, which they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away: and they were three days in gathering of the spoil, it was so much.