Psalms 83:6

KJV

The tabernacles of Edom, and the Ishmaelites; of Moab, and the Hagarenes;

KJV (with Strong's)

The tabernacles {H168} of Edom {H123}, and the Ishmaelites {H3459}; of Moab {H4124}, and the Hagarenes {H1905};

Complete Jewish Bible

the tents of Edom and the Yishma'elim, Mo'av and the Hagrim,

Berean Standard Bible

the tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites, of Moab and the Hagrites,

American Standard Version

The tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites; Moab, and the Hagarenes;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 83:6 meticulously lists a significant portion of a formidable confederacy of nations that have united with malicious intent against Israel. This verse, embedded within a communal lament by the psalmist Asaph, specifies Edom, the Ishmaelites, Moab, and the Hagarenes as key members of this hostile alliance, vividly underscoring the widespread and existential threat faced by God's chosen people. It serves as a stark reminder of the persistent opposition to Israel throughout its history, emphasizing that the battle against God's people is ultimately a spiritual confrontation against God Himself and His redemptive purposes.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalms 83 is a communal lament, an imprecatory psalm, where the psalmist Asaph urgently cries out to God to break His silence and intervene against a formidable confederacy of nations threatening to annihilate Israel. The psalm opens with an impassioned plea for divine action (verses 1-2), followed by a detailed description of the enemies' malicious intent to destroy God's people and erase His name from memory (verses 3-5). Verse 6 initiates a comprehensive enumeration of these hostile nations, which continues through verse 8. This detailed listing serves to emphasize the comprehensive and widespread nature of the threat, highlighting the overwhelming odds faced by Israel and setting the stage for the psalmist's subsequent prayer for God's judgment and vindication (verses 9-18), ultimately seeking to magnify God's sovereignty over all the earth. The specific mention of "tabernacles" here highlights the collective presence and unified purpose of these diverse groups, signifying their active mobilization against Israel.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The precise historical setting for Psalm 83 remains a subject of scholarly debate, with suggestions ranging from the early monarchy (e.g., the time of Jehoshaphat, as described in [2 Chronicles 20](/2_chronicles/20 "2 Chronicles 20 - Jehoshaphat's Prayer and Victory")) to the post-exilic period. Regardless of the specific date, the psalm reflects a recurring pattern in Israel's history: facing existential threats from surrounding nations. The peoples listed in verse 6—Edom, Ishmaelites, Moab, and Hagarenes—represent a complex mix of traditional adversaries and nomadic groups. Edom and Moab, descendants of Esau and Lot respectively, shared ancient, often contentious, kinship ties with Israel (see [Genesis 36](/genesis/36 "Genesis 36 - The Generations of Esau") for Edom and [Genesis 19:37](/genesis/19-37 "Genesis 19:37 - Origin of Moab") for Moab). The Ishmaelites, descendants of Abraham through Hagar (as seen in [Genesis 16:12](/genesis/16-12 "Genesis 16:12 - Ishmael's Character")), were nomadic tribes often associated with the Arabian desert. The Hagarenes, likely another nomadic tribe from the Arabian Peninsula, are often linked to the Ishmaelites due to their shared ancestry through Hagar. Culturally, the term "tabernacles" (tents) points to the nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyle of some of these groups, signifying their mobile military presence and the widespread nature of their territorial claims or incursions against Israel.
* **Key Themes:** Psalms 83:6 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the psalm and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Confederacy Against God's People**, illustrating how diverse nations, often with their own historical grievances, can unite with a singular, malevolent purpose: to eradicate Israel and, by extension, to defy God Himself (as stated in [Psalms 83:4](/psalms/83-4 "Psalms 83:4 - The Enemies' Conspiracy")). Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Historical Enmity**, showcasing the long-standing and often deeply rooted animosity between Israel and its neighbors, stemming from ancestral, territorial, and religious conflicts that span generations (e.g., Edom's consistent hostility, as seen in [Numbers 20:14-21](/numbers/20-14-21 "Numbers 20:14-21 - Edom Refuses Passage to Israel")). Finally, despite the overwhelming threat, the very act of listing these enemies in a prayer demonstrates the psalmist's appeal to **Divine Sovereignty and Protection**. The psalm ultimately relies on God's power to defend His covenant people, emphasizing that the ultimate battle is not merely political or military, but a spiritual conflict in which God's honor and name are at stake (a theme powerfully echoed in [Psalms 46:1-3](/psalms/46-1-3 "Psalms 46:1-3 - God is Our Refuge and Strength")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Tabernacles (Hebrew, _ʼôhel'_):** From the root אָהַל, this word denotes "a tent" or "dwelling," specifically one that is "clearly conspicuous from a distance." While literally referring to physical encampments, especially for nomadic or semi-nomadic peoples like the Ishmaelites and Hagarenes, it functions metonymically here. It represents not just their physical dwellings but the people themselves, their families, their armies, or even their entire nations and territories. Thus, "the tabernacles of Edom" refers to the entire nation of Edom and its military might, signifying their collective presence and hostile intent within the confederacy.
* **Edom (Hebrew, _ʼĔdôm'_):** Derived from אָדֹם, meaning "red" (referencing Esau's birth, [Genesis 25:25](/genesis/25-25 "Genesis 25:25 - Birth of Esau")), Edom refers to the elder twin-brother of Jacob, and subsequently, the region (Idumaea) occupied by his descendants. Situated southeast of the Dead Sea, Edom had a long and consistent history of animosity towards Israel, frequently refusing passage or actively opposing them, as seen during the Exodus (e.g., [Numbers 20:14-21](/numbers/20-14-21 "Numbers 20:14-21 - Edom Refuses Passage to Israel")). Their inclusion underscores a deep-seated, familial yet bitter, opposition, reflecting generations of conflict.
* **Hagarenes (Hebrew, _Hagrîy'_):** This term refers to a member of a certain Arabian clan, perhaps patronymically from הָגָר (Hagar). These were a nomadic people likely from the Arabian desert, often associated with or perhaps a specific clan within the broader group of Ishmaelites, given their name's derivation from Hagar. Their mention alongside the Ishmaelites emphasizes the extensive reach of the confederacy and the involvement of various desert tribes in the plot against Israel, highlighting the diverse and widespread nature of the threat.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The tabernacles of Edom":** This phrase identifies the nation of Edom as a primary participant in the hostile alliance. The use of "tabernacles" (tents) for Edom, a nation that also had settled cities, emphasizes their military encampments or perhaps highlights the nomadic elements within their broader population, signifying their active mobilization and presence in the confederacy. It immediately brings to mind their historical enmity and deep-seated animosity towards Israel, stemming from their ancestral connection as descendants of Esau.
* **"and the Ishmaelites":** This specifies the descendants of Ishmael, Abraham's son through Hagar. These were nomadic tribes inhabiting the Arabian desert, known for their raiding activities and often hostile posture towards settled communities. Their inclusion points to the broad geographical scope of the threat and the involvement of desert peoples who, while related to Israel through Abraham, were frequently hostile and posed a significant danger due to their mobility and martial prowess.
* **"of Moab":** This refers to the nation of Moab, descendants of Lot, Abraham's nephew. Their territory lay east of the Dead Sea. Moab had a long and complex history with Israel, marked by both periods of interaction (e.g., Ruth) and frequent conflict, including attempts to curse Israel through Balaam (e.g., [Numbers 22](/numbers/22 "Numbers 22 - Balaam and Balak")) and acts of idolatry. Their presence in the confederacy signifies a recurring, often religiously motivated, opposition, rooted in ancient grievances.
* **"and the Hagarenes":** This identifies another nomadic group, likely from the Arabian desert, whose name connects them directly to Hagar, Ishmael's mother. Their mention alongside the Ishmaelites suggests either a close association, a specific tribal distinction, or an emphasis on the full extent of Hagar's descendants participating in the alliance. It reinforces the idea of a comprehensive and diverse coalition of enemies, encompassing both settled nations and mobile desert tribes, all united against Israel.

#### Literary Devices
Psalms 83:6 employs several effective literary devices to convey the magnitude of the threat against Israel. The most prominent is **Enumeration**, as the psalmist meticulously lists the various nations involved in the conspiracy. This detailed cataloging serves to emphasize the overwhelming nature of the threat and the widespread opposition against Israel, creating a sense of dire urgency. Another device at play is **Metonymy**, particularly evident in the phrase "the tabernacles of Edom." Here, "tabernacles" (tents) stands in for the entire nation or its military forces, highlighting their active presence and participation in the alliance. This allows for a concise yet powerful representation of the enemy's collective might and unified purpose. Furthermore, there is an implied **Hyperbole** in the sheer number and diversity of the listed enemies, underscoring the seemingly insurmountable odds faced by Israel and intensifying the psalmist's desperate plea for divine intervention. This extensive listing also generates a sense of **Climax** as the psalm builds towards a full revelation of the enemy's comprehensive plot.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalms 83:6, by listing a specific segment of the confederacy against Israel, powerfully illustrates the recurring biblical theme of relentless opposition to God's people. This opposition is not merely geopolitical or territorial; it is fundamentally a spiritual battle against God Himself and His redemptive purposes for humanity. The diverse origins of these nations—some kin, some distant, some nomadic, some settled—underscore that hostility towards God's chosen nation can arise from various sources, driven by envy, territorial ambition, historical grievances, or spiritual darkness. The psalmist's detailed enumeration of enemies serves to highlight the magnitude of the threat, yet simultaneously sets the stage for God's ultimate vindication and demonstration of His sovereignty over all nations. This verse implicitly affirms God's covenant faithfulness to Israel, as the psalmist appeals to God to defend His people and His name, reminding us that God's commitment to His promises extends even in the face of overwhelming odds, ensuring that those who bless Israel will be blessed, and those who curse will be cursed.

* [Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "The Abrahamic Covenant and Blessing")
* [Romans 8:31](/romans/8-31 "God Is For Us - Who Can Be Against Us?")
* [Revelation 12:17](/revelation/12-17 "The Dragon's War Against God's People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalms 83:6, though describing an ancient conflict, resonates deeply with the spiritual realities faced by believers today. Just as ancient Israel confronted a visible, organized confederacy, followers of Christ are called to be acutely aware of the spiritual forces that align against God's kingdom and His people. This verse reminds us that opposition to God's purposes is often multi-faceted and relentless, drawing from various sources—whether overt persecution, subtle cultural pressures, or internal spiritual battles—and manifesting in diverse forms. Our response, like the psalmist's, should not be despair or passive resignation but fervent, specific prayer, acknowledging God's absolute sovereignty and appealing to His power to intervene. It encourages us to trust that even when surrounded by seemingly overwhelming forces, God remains our ultimate refuge and strength, capable of scattering His enemies and upholding His people. This passage calls us to vigilance, prayer, and unwavering faith in God's protective hand, knowing that the ultimate battle belongs to the Lord, and His victory is assured.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "confederacies" or forms of opposition do I perceive against God's people or His truth in my contemporary context?**
* **How does the psalmist's detailed naming of enemies encourage me to be specific and persistent in my prayers for protection and intervention?**
* **In what ways can I practically demonstrate my trust in God's sovereignty and faithfulness when faced with overwhelming challenges or opposition in my life or in the church?**

### FAQ

**Why are these specific nations listed in Psalms 83:6?**

Answer: The nations listed—Edom, Ishmaelites, Moab, and Hagarenes—represent a significant portion of Israel's traditional adversaries and surrounding nomadic tribes. Their inclusion highlights the widespread nature of the confederacy and the deep-seated historical, territorial, and often ancestral animosity they held towards Israel. Edom and Moab were descendants of Esau and Lot, respectively, making them distant kin but frequent enemies who often sought to undermine Israel's existence (e.g., [Numbers 22](/numbers/22 "Numbers 22 - Balaam and Balak") for Moab). The Ishmaelites and Hagarenes were nomadic desert tribes, descendants of Hagar, who posed a constant threat through raiding and territorial disputes. Their combined presence signifies a comprehensive plot to eradicate Israel, uniting diverse groups under a common goal of eliminating God's chosen people and, by extension, God's name from the earth.

**What does "tabernacles" mean in this context?**

Answer: The Hebrew word for "tabernacles" (`'ohel'`) literally means "tent" or "dwelling." While it refers to the physical tents and encampments of nomadic peoples like the Ishmaelites and Hagarenes, in this context, it also functions as a **metonymy**. It represents the entire people, their armies, their territories, and their collective power. So, "the tabernacles of Edom" means the nation of Edom and its military might, signifying their active presence and unified intent within the hostile confederacy. It emphasizes the active mobilization and collective nature of the threat against Israel, highlighting that these are not merely scattered individuals but organized entities arrayed for war.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 83:6, with its vivid depiction of a confederacy of nations arrayed against Israel, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the ongoing spiritual battle against Christ and His church. Just as ancient Israel faced a coalition of earthly enemies, the New Testament reveals that the true adversary is not merely flesh and blood but spiritual forces of evil, against whom believers must stand firm (as seen in [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - Spiritual Warfare Against Principalities and Powers")). The enemies listed in Psalms 83 foreshadow the "world system" and the spiritual powers that continually oppose God's redemptive plan throughout history. However, in Christ, the ultimate victory over all hostile powers has been decisively secured. His crucifixion and resurrection were a triumphant disarming of principalities and powers, making a public spectacle of them and triumphing over them by the cross (as powerfully declared in [Colossians 2:15](/colossians/2-15 "Colossians 2:15 - Christ's Triumph Over Spiritual Powers")). The church, as the new Israel, continues to face opposition, but Jesus Himself promised that the gates of Hades would not prevail against His church (a foundational and comforting promise in [Matthew 16:18](/matthew/16-18 "Matthew 16:18 - The Gates of Hades Shall Not Prevail")). Ultimately, the confederacy of nations in Psalms 83 points to the final, universal rebellion against God and His Anointed One, which will be decisively crushed by the returning Christ, the true King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who will strike down the nations with justice and righteousness (a glorious vision of His ultimate triumph in [Revelation 19:11-16](/revelation/19-11-16 "Revelation 19:11-16 - Christ's Triumphant Return")). Thus, the ancient plea for deliverance in Psalms 83 is answered in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who guarantees the ultimate triumph of God's people over every spiritual and earthly foe.

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

1 Chronicles 5:10

And in the days of Saul they made war with the Hagarites, who fell by their hand: and they dwelt in their tents throughout all the east [land] of Gilead.

2 Chronicles 20:1

¶ It came to pass after this also, [that] the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with them [other] beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle.

Psalms 137:7

¶ Remember, O LORD, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem; who said, Rase [it], rase [it, even] to the foundation thereof.

1 Chronicles 5:19

And they made war with the Hagarites, with Jetur, and Nephish, and Nodab.

1 Chronicles 5:20

And they were helped against them, and the Hagarites were delivered into their hand, and all that [were] with them: for they cried to God in the battle, and he was intreated of them; because they put their trust in him.

Genesis 25:12

Now these [are] the generations of Ishmael, Abraham's son, whom Hagar the Egyptian, Sarah's handmaid, bare unto Abraham:

Genesis 25:18

And they dwelt from Havilah unto Shur, that [is] before Egypt, as thou goest toward Assyria: [and] he died in the presence of all his brethren.