Definition: I have wounded them that they were not able to rise: they are fallen under my feet.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 18:38. It's a really powerful and evocative phrase. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse speaks about God’s overwhelming power and judgment against those who are defeated or unable to recover. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “I have wounded them…” : This suggests that God has inflicted a painful, perhaps even devastating, punishment on those who are struggling with something – maybe they're facing hardship, rejection, despair, or failure. It’s not just a simple disagreement; it feels like a deliberate attack. “…that they were not able to rise…” : This is the key part. "Rise" means to recover, to regain strength, to move forward. These people failed to rise up. They couldn't overcome their challenges. “They are fallen under my feet.” : This is a dramatic image of being completely defeated and brought low – like being buried or dropped into the ground. It implies a complete loss of hope and ability to continue on. Overall Meaning: The verse paints a picture of God’s ultimate justice. He isn't just punishing them; he’s completely crushing their efforts and leaving them without any chance of recovery or success. It’s a statement of absolute power and a sense of impending doom for those who are failing. Context & Interpretation: Psalm 18 is a lament – a song of sorrow and despair. It's often interpreted as a reflection on the struggles of humanity, particularly in relation to God. It’s about acknowledging that we all face challenges and that sometimes, even our best efforts can be defeated. In short, it says God has dealt a harsh blow, leaving those who are struggling without any hope of recovery. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the meaning within a specific context (like its relationship to other parts of the Psalm)? Give you some examples of how this verse might be applied in real life?