Translations
Original
Notes
The Midianites, led by Oreb and Zeeb and ruled by Zebah and Zalmunna, were Israel's enemies during Gideon's time (Judges 7:1–8:5). Barak's alliance defeated Sisera and Jabin (Judges 4).
The psalmist prays that God will miraculously destroy the new coalition as he did three other enemies; doing so would bring him glory.
This community lament asks God to rescue his people and give them victory. The short and direct poetry suggests a time of great trouble. A strong group of nations plans to destroy Israel (Psalm 83:1–4) and joins together against God (83:5–8).
The psalmist remembers what happened to other enemies who attacked Israel in the past (Psalm 83:9–12). He prays that the same thing will happen to these enemies (83:13–16), so that they will recognize God’s power and give him honor (83:17–18).
It is not clear whether this psalm refers to one specific historical event or whether it gathers together several nations as a poetic picture of Israel’s enemies.
People
Oreb: Midianite prince, killed by Ephraimites Zalmunna: Midianite king defeated by Gideon Zebah: Midianite king defeated by Gideon Zeeb: Midianite prince defeated by Gideon
Glossary
Topics
Afflictions and Adversities: Prayer In Armies: March in Ranks: Confederated Midianites: Completeness of Their Destruction, Alluded To Oreb: A Prince of Midian, Overcome by Gideon and Killed by the Ephraimites Zalmunna: King of Midian Zebah: King of Midian Zeeb: A Prince of Midian