God’s people will always find their security in His greater power.
In this verse, the psalmist names yet another ally in the conspiracy against Israel by stating that “Assyria also has joined with them; They have become a help to the children of Lot. Selah.” (v.8). Assyria was a formidable empire located primarily in what is now northern Iraq, known for its expansionist policies and military might around 900-609 BC. This added threat underscores the severity of the hostile coalition, as Assyria was renowned for overpowering nations in the Ancient Near East. By highlighting Assyria’s collaboration with the enemies of Israel, the psalmist intensifies the portrayal of danger facing God’s people.
The second half of this verse mentions “They have become a help to the children of Lot.” (v.8). Historically, the children of Lot are the people of Moab and Ammon, whose line dates back to Lot’s descendants (Genesis 19:36-38). Moab and Ammon inhabited territories east of the Jordan River, roughly spanning parts of modern-day Jordan. Their alliance with Assyria suggests a broad and organized effort against the nation of Israel—an effort the psalmist laments and petitions God to counter. The text shows that even longstanding rivalries or different political powers could come together when unified in opposition to the Lord’s chosen people.
Within the context of the entire psalm, this verse spotlights the continued plea for divine intervention. The united hostility of neighboring nations, now strengthened by a great power like Assyria, intensifies the psalmist’s cry that God would protect and preserve Israel. For New Testament believers, it echoes the broader theme that no alliance—however intimidating—can ultimately stand against God’s sovereign plans (Romans 8:31). The psalm’s prayerful reliance on the Almighty reminds readers today to trust in Him, even when surrounded by formidable odds.
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Psalms 83:8 meaning
In this verse, the psalmist names yet another ally in the conspiracy against Israel by stating that “Assyria also has joined with them; They have become a help to the children of Lot. Selah.” (v.8). Assyria was a formidable empire located primarily in what is now northern Iraq, known for its expansionist policies and military might around 900-609 BC. This added threat underscores the severity of the hostile coalition, as Assyria was renowned for overpowering nations in the Ancient Near East. By highlighting Assyria’s collaboration with the enemies of Israel, the psalmist intensifies the portrayal of danger facing God’s people.
The second half of this verse mentions “They have become a help to the children of Lot.” (v.8). Historically, the children of Lot are the people of Moab and Ammon, whose line dates back to Lot’s descendants (Genesis 19:36-38). Moab and Ammon inhabited territories east of the Jordan River, roughly spanning parts of modern-day Jordan. Their alliance with Assyria suggests a broad and organized effort against the nation of Israel—an effort the psalmist laments and petitions God to counter. The text shows that even longstanding rivalries or different political powers could come together when unified in opposition to the Lord’s chosen people.
Within the context of the entire psalm, this verse spotlights the continued plea for divine intervention. The united hostility of neighboring nations, now strengthened by a great power like Assyria, intensifies the psalmist’s cry that God would protect and preserve Israel. For New Testament believers, it echoes the broader theme that no alliance—however intimidating—can ultimately stand against God’s sovereign plans (Romans 8:31). The psalm’s prayerful reliance on the Almighty reminds readers today to trust in Him, even when surrounded by formidable odds.