Definition: And he smote his enemies in the hinder parts: he put them to a perpetual reproach.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 78:66. It’s a really powerful and somewhat poetic verse that speaks about God’s judgment and restoration. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God’s removal of those who have wronged him, not just as a one-time event, but as a lasting consequence – a perpetual reminder of their wrongdoing. It's about bringing justice and restoring order after harm. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he smote his enemies…” : This means God actively dealt with those who have disobeyed him or harmed him. It wasn’t just a gentle warning; it was a forceful action. “…in the hinder parts” : “Hinder parts” refers to places that are less visible, perhaps remote, and less likely to be noticed. It suggests these enemies were hidden from everyone else. “He put them to a perpetual reproach.” : This is the core of the verse. God permanently marked them with a situation where they will always be reminded of their wrongdoing. It’s not just a temporary punishment; it's a lasting consequence. Think of it like a stain – an indelible mark that remains, even after the initial offense. What does this mean practically? It suggests a sense of justice and accountability . God is holding those accountable for their actions, and they won’t be forgotten or allowed to hide from his presence. It's about bringing order back to a situation where wrongs have been done and consequences must be enforced. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a reminder of the importance of: Repentance: God wants us to turn away from wrong doing. Justice: God will always right the wrongs that are committed. Accountability: We must be held responsible for our actions. In essence, Psalm 78:66 is a statement of God’s power and his unwavering commitment to restoring order and justice after wrongdoing. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning within a specific context (like its use in the Old Testament)?