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Habakkuk 3:13

Thou wentest forth for the salvation of thy people, even for salvation with thine anointed; thou woundedst the head out of the house of the wicked, by discovering the foundation unto the neck. Selah.

Habakkuk 3:13 · King James Version

Meaning

Psalm 68:21 is a powerful verse that speaks about the salvation of God's people. The verse highlights how God goes out to save His people and His anointed ones. It also describes how God deals with the wicked, symbolically using the imagery of wounding the head of the house of the wicked. This imagery signifies the defeat of evil and the destruction of the foundation of wickedness. The "Selah" at the end of the verse is a musical notation often found in the Psalms which may indicate a pause for reflection or meditation. Overall, this verse emphasizes God's role as the protector and savior of His people, and His ability to bring justice to the wicked while ensuring the salvation of His chosen ones.

Theological Overview

This verse from the book of Habakkuk speaks about the actions of God on behalf of his people, particularly in delivering them from their enemies. The phrase "Thou wentest forth for the salvation of thy people" emphasizes God's proactive and intentional efforts to save and protect his chosen ones. The word "anointed" in this context refers to a leader or king chosen and appointed by God, signifying divine approval and authority. The imagery of "woundedst the head out of the house of the wicked" symbolizes God's decisive victory over evil forces, with the head representing the source of power and influence in the house of the wicked being dealt a fatal blow. Additionally, the mention of "discovering the foundation unto the neck" suggests a thorough and complete judgment against the wicked, leaving no room for escape or survival.

This verse is a powerful reminder of God's unwavering commitment to protect and save his people, illustrating his sovereignty over all things and his ultimate victory over evil. The "Selah" at the end prompts a pause for reflection, allowing readers to ponder the significance of God's actions and his faithfulness to those who trust in him.

Habakkuk 3:13 in other translations

American Standard Version

Thou wentest forth for the salvation of thy people, For the salvation of thine anointed; Thou woundest the head out of the house of the wicked man, Laying bare the foundation even unto the neck. {{Selah.

World English Bible

You went out for the salvation of your people, for the salvation of your anointed. You crushed the head of the land of wickedness. You stripped them head to foot. Selah.

Douay-Rheims

Thou wentest forth for the salvation of thy people: for salvation with thy Christ. Thou struckest the head of the house of the wicked: thou hast laid bare his foundation even to the neck.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Thou wentest foorth for the saluation of thy people, euen for saluation with thine Anointed: thou hast wounded the head of the house of the wicked, and discoueredst the foundations vnto the necke, Selah.