The Unlikely Response to an Existential Threat
In the face of fierce enemy armies, King Jehoshaphat chose a seemingly suicidal response: sending Levite singers into battle ahead of his warriors. The amazing thing is that this tactic worked above and beyond any normal military response: “As they began to sing and praise, the LORD set an ambush against the Ammonites, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah, so that they were routed” (2 Chronicles 20:22).
The Amazing Double Meaning
“Out of the mouths of babes and infants you have founded a bulwark because of your foes, to silence the enemy and the avenger” (Psalm 8:2). This verse, quoted later by Jesus, contains a fascinating play on words. The word עֹז (ʽOz) – translated as “bulwark” here – has the primary meaning of strength and valor, with a secondary meaning of praise. This one Hebrew word captures the essence of the entire story of the army that won by singing.
Explore the Incredible world of the Bible
Sometimes understanding one word is like reading an entire story. Discovering the meanings of Hebrew words in their context can unearth surprising and inspiring insights. Don’t let anything stand in the way of your desire to learn biblical Hebrew – enroll in our live online courses and be able to explore the incredible world of the Scriptures.
How does it work?
At the Israel Institute of Biblical Studies you will learn Biblical Hebrew with us via live video conferences. This means our students communicate with the teacher and each other in real time, from the comfort of their home.