Psalms 68:12

Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil.

Kings {H4428} of armies {H6635} did flee {H5074}{H8799)} apace {H5074}{H8799)}: and she that tarried {H5116} at home {H1004} divided {H2505}{H8762)} the spoil {H7998}.

Kings and their armies are fleeing, fleeing, while the women at home divide the spoil.

“Kings and their armies flee in haste; she who waits at home divides the plunder.

Kings of armies flee, they flee; And she that tarrieth at home divideth the spoil.

Commentary

Psalm 68:12 is a vivid declaration of God's overwhelming power and the unexpected beneficiaries of His triumphs. This verse paints a picture of a decisive victory achieved by God on behalf of His people, where mighty enemies are utterly routed, and the rewards are shared even by those who did not participate directly in the battle.

Context

Psalm 68 is a majestic hymn celebrating God as a triumphant warrior and deliverer, often associated with the procession of the Ark of the Covenant into Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:12). It recounts God's historical acts of salvation, from the Exodus to the establishment of His dwelling in Zion. Verse 12 fits within this larger narrative of divine conquest, emphasizing that God's presence guarantees victory against formidable foes.

Key Themes

  • Divine Victory and Defeat of Enemies: The verse vividly portrays "kings of armies" — powerful and numerous adversaries — fleeing in disarray. This highlights God's absolute supremacy over all earthly powers and His ability to secure victory for His people, no matter the opposition.
  • Reversal of Fortunes: A striking element is the contrast between the fleeing kings and "she that tarried at home" dividing the spoil. This signifies a profound reversal of power, where the weak and seemingly passive reap the benefits of God's intervention. It underscores that God's victories are often achieved through unexpected means.
  • God's Provision and Community Sharing: The "spoil" represents the rich blessings and resources gained through God's triumph. The fact that those who remained at home share in this spoil illustrates God's generous provision and the communal nature of His blessings. Everyone in the community benefits from His mighty acts.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase for "kings of armies" (מַלְכֵי צְבָאוֹת - malchei tzeva'ot) emphasizes the immense power and organization of the opposing forces, making their swift flight all the more dramatic. The repetition in "did flee apace" (יִדֹּדוּן יִדֹּדוּן - yiddodun yiddodun) intensifies the sense of panicked, headlong retreat. "She that tarried at home" (נְוַת בַּיִת - n'vat bayit) literally means "dweller of the house," typically referring to women. This imagery of women dividing the spoils is a powerful symbol of complete victory and peace, where even those not engaged in combat safely enjoy the fruits of conquest, as seen in Deborah's song of triumph.

Practical Application

Psalm 68:12 offers profound encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that:

  • God Fights Our Battles: Just as God defeated mighty armies for Israel, He can overcome the overwhelming challenges and spiritual adversaries we face. We are called to trust in His power rather than our own strength (Ephesians 6:11).
  • All Believers Share in Christ's Victory: The image of those at home dividing the spoil beautifully illustrates how all believers, whether actively serving on the "front lines" or faithfully living out their calling in daily life, partake in the victory secured by Jesus Christ. Our salvation and spiritual blessings are a direct result of His triumph over sin and death (Colossians 2:15).
  • Hope in Adversity: When circumstances seem insurmountable, this verse provides hope. It assures us that God is actively working to bring about His purposes, and even in our quiet faithfulness, we are recipients of His glorious victories.

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Cross-References

  • Joshua 10:16 (5 votes)

    But these five kings fled, and hid themselves in a cave at Makkedah.

  • Judges 5:19 (4 votes)

    The kings came [and] fought, then fought the kings of Canaan in Taanach by the waters of Megiddo; they took no gain of money.

  • Joshua 12:7 (3 votes)

    ¶ And these [are] the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel smote on this side Jordan on the west, from Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon even unto the mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir; which Joshua gave unto the tribes of Israel [for] a possession according to their divisions;

  • Joshua 12:24 (3 votes)

    The king of Tirzah, one: all the kings thirty and one.

  • 1 Samuel 30:24 (3 votes)

    For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part [is] that goeth down to the battle, so [shall] his part [be] that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike.

  • Revelation 6:15 (2 votes)

    And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;

  • Joshua 10:42 (2 votes)

    And all these kings and their land did Joshua take at one time, because the LORD God of Israel fought for Israel.