Psalm 35:10

All my bones will exclaim, "Who is like You, O LORD, who delivers the afflicted from the aggressor, the poor and needy from the robber?"

Study Bible

All my bones will exclaim
This phrase emphasizes the depth of the psalmist's gratitude and praise, suggesting that his entire being is involved in worship. In Hebrew poetry, the use of "bones" often signifies the innermost self or the totality of one's being. This expression of total involvement in praise is seen elsewhere in scripture, such as in Psalm 103:1, where the psalmist calls on his soul and all that is within him to bless the Lord. The imagery of bones speaking underscores the intensity and sincerity of the psalmist's response to God's deliverance.

“Who is like You, O LORD
This rhetorical question highlights the uniqueness and incomparability of God. In the ancient Near Eastern context, where polytheism was prevalent, the declaration of God's uniqueness was a profound statement of monotheism. The phrase echoes the song of Moses in Exodus 15:11, "Who among the gods is like you, LORD?" It affirms the belief that the God of Israel is unparalleled in power, holiness, and ability to save. This theme is central to the identity of Israel as a people chosen by a singular, sovereign God.

who delivers the afflicted from the aggressor
The deliverance of the afflicted is a recurring theme in the Psalms and throughout the Old Testament. The term "afflicted" often refers to those who are oppressed or suffering, whether due to external enemies or personal circumstances. The "aggressor" can be understood as any force or person causing harm or injustice. This deliverance is a demonstration of God's justice and compassion, as seen in passages like Psalm 72:4, where the king is called to defend the afflicted and crush the oppressor. It also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance brought by Jesus Christ, who came to set the captives free (Luke 4:18).

the poor and needy from the robber?”
The mention of the "poor and needy" reflects God's concern for the marginalized and vulnerable in society. Throughout the Bible, God is portrayed as a defender of those who lack power and resources, as seen in Deuteronomy 10:18, where He executes justice for the orphan and widow. The "robber" symbolizes those who exploit or take advantage of the weak. This deliverance is not only a physical rescue but also a spiritual and moral one, pointing to the broader biblical narrative of God's kingdom, where justice and righteousness prevail. Jesus' ministry often focused on the poor and needy, fulfilling prophecies like Isaiah 61:1, and His teachings in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3) further emphasize the blessedness of the poor in spirit.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 35, David is expressing his reliance on God for deliverance from his enemies.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The central figure in this verse, Yahweh is depicted as the unparalleled deliverer and protector of the afflicted.

3. The Afflicted
Represents those who are oppressed or suffering, seeking God's intervention.

4. The Oppressor
The one who is too strong for the afflicted, symbolizing any force or person that causes harm or injustice.

5. The Poor and Needy
Those who are vulnerable and in need of God's protection and justice.

Teaching Points

God's Unparalleled Nature
Recognize and worship God for His unique ability to deliver and protect.

Dependence on Divine Deliverance
Trust in God's power to rescue us from situations where we feel overwhelmed or oppressed.

Advocacy for the Vulnerable
As followers of Christ, we are called to support and defend the poor and needy, reflecting God's heart for justice.

Praise in Adversity
Even in difficult times, let our whole being, like David's "bones," praise God for His faithfulness and deliverance.

Spiritual Warfare
Acknowledge the spiritual battles we face and rely on God's strength to overcome forces too strong for us alone.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does recognizing God's unique ability to deliver influence your daily trust in Him?

2. In what ways can you advocate for the poor and needy in your community, reflecting God's heart as described in Psalm 35:10?

3. Can you identify a time when you felt overwhelmed by an "oppressor"? How did you see God's deliverance in that situation?

4. How does the theme of God's deliverance in Psalm 35:10 connect with the New Testament teachings on spiritual warfare?

5. Reflect on a personal experience where you praised God in adversity. How did this impact your faith and perspective?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 15:11
This verse echoes the sentiment of God's uniqueness and power, similar to the exclamation in Psalm 35:10.

Isaiah 41:10
Offers reassurance of God's support and deliverance, aligning with the theme of God rescuing the afflicted.

Luke 1:49
Mary's Magnificat praises God's mighty deeds, paralleling the acknowledgment of God's deliverance in Psalm 35:10.

2 Corinthians 12:9
Paul's declaration of God's strength in weakness connects to the theme of God delivering the afflicted from overpowering forces.