Psalm 64:7

But God will shoot them with arrows; suddenly they will be wounded.

Study Bible

But God will shoot them with arrows;
This phrase emphasizes divine retribution and justice. In the biblical context, arrows often symbolize God's judgment and wrath (Deuteronomy 32:23, Psalm 7:13). The imagery of God shooting arrows suggests precision and inevitability, indicating that His justice is both targeted and unavoidable. Historically, arrows were a common weapon in ancient warfare, representing a swift and decisive action. This metaphor underscores God's active role in defending the righteous and punishing the wicked, aligning with the broader biblical theme of God as a warrior (Exodus 15:3). Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ, who will ultimately judge the world in righteousness (Acts 17:31).

suddenly they will be wounded.
The suddenness of the action highlights the unexpected nature of divine intervention. In the cultural context of the Psalms, sudden calamity was often seen as a sign of divine displeasure or judgment. This phrase reassures the faithful that God's justice, though sometimes delayed, will come swiftly and unexpectedly upon the wicked. The wounding signifies not just physical harm but also a deeper spiritual or moral downfall. This connects to other scriptures where sudden destruction comes upon those who oppose God (1 Thessalonians 5:3). It serves as a warning and a comfort, affirming that God is in control and will act in His perfect timing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. God
The central figure in this verse, God is depicted as the divine warrior who intervenes on behalf of the righteous.

2. The Wicked
Though not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of Psalm 64 describes the wicked as those who plot against the righteous.

3. Arrows
Symbolic of God's judgment and swift retribution against the wicked.

4. The Righteous
Implicitly present as the ones whom God defends and vindicates.

5. Sudden Wounding
Represents the unexpected and decisive nature of God's intervention.

Teaching Points

Divine Justice
God is actively involved in the affairs of humanity, ensuring that justice is served. His intervention is both timely and effective.

The Power of God’s Intervention
God's actions are decisive and cannot be thwarted by human schemes. Believers can trust in His ultimate control over all situations.

The Suddenness of God’s Judgment
God's judgment can come unexpectedly, reminding us to live righteously and be prepared for His intervention at any time.

Protection for the Righteous
While the wicked may plot against the righteous, God is their defender. This assurance should encourage believers to remain steadfast in their faith.

The Symbolism of Arrows
Arrows in this context symbolize the precision and inevitability of God's judgment. Believers should take comfort in knowing that God’s justice is both accurate and unavoidable.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of God shooting arrows enhance our understanding of His role as a divine warrior?

2. In what ways can we see the suddenness of God's intervention in our own lives or in biblical history?

3. How does the assurance of God's protection influence our response to the challenges and injustices we face?

4. What are some practical ways we can prepare ourselves for God's sudden interventions in our lives?

5. How can the concept of divine justice in Psalm 64:7 be reconciled with the New Testament teachings on grace and forgiveness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 7:12-13
This passage also uses the imagery of God preparing His arrows against the wicked, emphasizing divine justice.

Deuteronomy 32:23
Describes God’s arrows as instruments of His wrath, reinforcing the theme of divine retribution.

Isaiah 49:2
Speaks of God’s word as a polished arrow, highlighting the power and precision of divine action.

Ephesians 6:16
Discusses the "shield of faith" to extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one, contrasting the protective power of faith with the destructive power of God's arrows against evil.

Revelation 19:15
Describes Christ as the divine warrior who executes judgment, paralleling the imagery of God as a warrior in Psalm 64:7.