Psalm 2:5

Berean Standard Bible
Then He rebukes them in His anger, and terrifies them in His fury:
 
King James Bible
Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.
 
NET Bible
Then he angrily speaks to them and terrifies them in his rage, saying,
 
Hebrew Text:

אָז יְדַבֵּר אֱלֹהִים בְּאַפּוֹ, וּבַחֲמָתוֹ יְבַהֲלֵמוֹ

 
Transliteration:
Az y'dabēr Ēlōhīm b'apo, u'vachămāto y'vahălemo
 
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Study Bible:
 
Then He rebukes them in His anger
 
Then
This word indicates a sequence of events, suggesting that the actions described are a direct response to the preceding verses. In the context of Psalm 2, it follows the nations' rebellion against God and His Anointed. The Hebrew word used here is "אָז" (az), which often denotes a turning point or a decisive moment. This highlights the immediacy and certainty of God's response to human defiance.
 
He rebukes
The Hebrew word for "rebukes" is "יְדַבֵּר" (yedabber), which can mean to speak, declare, or command. In this context, it implies a stern correction or reprimand. God's rebuke is not merely a verbal admonishment but carries the weight of divine authority and power. It is a reminder that God's word is active and effective, capable of bringing about change and enforcing His will.
 
them
This refers to the rebellious nations and their leaders mentioned earlier in the psalm. The use of "them" underscores the collective nature of the rebellion against God. It serves as a reminder that while individuals may conspire against the divine order, they are ultimately subject to God's sovereign judgment.
 
in His anger
The phrase "in His anger" is derived from the Hebrew "בְּאַפּוֹ" (be'apo), which conveys the idea of intense displeasure or wrath. God's anger is not capricious or unjust; it is a righteous response to sin and rebellion. This divine anger is a reflection of God's holiness and justice, emphasizing that He cannot tolerate sin and will act to uphold His righteous standards.
 
and terrifies them in His fury
 
and terrifies
The Hebrew word "וּבַחֲרוֹנוֹ" (ubacharono) is used here, which means to cause fear or dismay. God's actions are not only corrective but also serve to instill a sense of awe and reverence. This terror is not meant to be destructive but to lead to repentance and acknowledgment of God's sovereignty.
 
them
Again, this refers to the rebellious nations. The repetition of "them" emphasizes that God's response is directed specifically at those who oppose His rule. It serves as a warning to all who would challenge God's authority.
 
in His fury
The word "fury" comes from the Hebrew "חָרוֹן" (charon), which denotes a burning anger or intense wrath. This is a further intensification of God's response, highlighting the seriousness of the rebellion against Him. God's fury is not uncontrolled rage but a measured and just response to sin. It underscores the gravity of opposing the divine will and serves as a call to submit to God's authority.
 
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Commentary:
 
Context of Psalm 2:
 
The psalm begins with nations and peoples conspiring against the Lord and His anointed (Psalm 2:1-3). This can be seen as a metaphor for human rebellion against divine authority.
 
Verse 5 Interpretation:
 
"Then he will speak to them in his wrath" - This implies that God will not remain silent in the face of opposition. The use of "wrath" indicates a strong reaction to the defiance or rebellion described in the earlier verses. This wrath is not an irrational anger but a just response to the rejection of divine sovereignty.
 
"and terrify them in his fury" - Here, "terrify" or "terrify them" suggests that the outcome of God's response will be so powerful and overwhelming that it will cause fear or awe among those who oppose Him. The term "fury" further emphasizes the intensity of God's reaction to injustice or rebellion.
 
Theological Implications:
 
This verse underscores the theme of divine judgment. In many interpretations, it serves as a warning to those who oppose God's plans or His chosen ones, whether that be kings, leaders, or nations.
 
It also highlights the sovereignty of God; even when human powers seem to be in control or plotting against divine order, ultimately, God's authority prevails.
 
Messianic Interpretation:
 
In Christian theology, this psalm is often linked with Jesus Christ, where the "anointed" is seen as Christ, and the wrath described here is part of the eschatological judgment where Christ returns to establish His kingdom fully.
 
Cultural and Literary Context:
 
The language of wrath and fury is common in the Psalms and other prophetic books, employing a vivid, poetic style to convey the seriousness of defying God's will or moral laws.
 
Overall, Psalm 2:5 paints a picture of divine response to human rebellion, emphasizing God's ultimate control and judgment, intended to both warn and guide human conduct in alignment with divine will.