Psalms 83:8
Assur also is joined with them: they have holpen the children of Lot. Selah.
Psalms 83:8 (KJV)
Context
Psalm 83 is a prayer for God’s help against nations that have joined together to destroy Israel. The psalmist, likely Asaph, lists these enemies in the previous verses. Verse 8 completes the list by naming Assur, that is, Assyria. This was a distant and powerful empire, not a small neighboring state. Its presence made the coalition especially formidable. The verse closes with “Selah,” a musical pause that invites reflection on the gravity of the threat.
Meaning
Assur refers to Assyria, a mighty nation that often threatened Israel. The psalmist says Assyria is “joined” with the other enemies and has “holpen” the children of Lot. The word “holpen” means “helped” or “supported.” In Hebrew, it carries the idea of being an arm or source of strength. Assyria lent its military power to these nations. The “children of Lot” are the Moabites and Ammonites, descendants of Abraham’s nephew Lot. This shows that Israel’s traditional enemies received help from a great empire, making the danger much greater. The coalition was not just a local quarrel; it included a major power, which made the threat severe and prompted the psalmist’s urgent plea.
Biblical connections
The alliance described here is part of a larger pattern in Scripture. God had promised Abraham that He would bless those who blessed him and curse those who cursed him (Genesis 12:3). The nations opposing Israel were acting against that promise. Assyria later became a major instrument of judgment against Israel, but here it appears as part of a coalition against God’s people. This verse sets the stage for the psalmist’s plea for God to act as He had in past deliverances. The psalmist remembered how God had rescued His people before, and he trusted that God would do so again.
Application
Trust in God’s protection even when enemies seem strong and many. The psalmist faced a powerful alliance, yet he turned to God in prayer.
Recognize that opposition to God’s people is real. Believers should not be surprised by hostility but should face it with faith.
Pray for God’s intervention in difficult situations. Like the psalmist, we can bring our fears and threats before God, trusting His power.
Reflect on God’s faithfulness. Throughout history, God has delivered His people. Remembering His past help strengthens our trust for the present.
Reflection
This verse reminds us that God sees the plots of the wicked and hears the cries of His people. The alliance against Israel seemed overwhelming, but the psalmist knew that God was greater. When we face opposition, we can rest in the same truth. God is our refuge and strength, and He is able to save. Let us bring our burdens to Him and wait for His deliverance.
