What are the "sharp arrows" and "burning coals" symbolic of in Psalm 120:4? Verse in Focus “ What will He do to you, and what will be added to you, O deceitful tongue? Sharp arrows of the warrior, with burning coals of the broom tree.” (Psalm 120:3-4) Setting the Scene • Psalm 120 opens the Songs of Ascents. • The writer feels trapped among people whose “lying lips” cause him anguish (v. 2). • He cries out for the LORD to answer and judge the deception around him. • Verse 4 names the specific instruments of that judgment: sharp arrows and burning coals. Defining the Imagery • Sharp arrows of the warrior – Military arrows were long, barbed, and designed to pierce armor. – “Of the warrior” highlights precision, skill, and unavoidable impact. • Burning coals of the broom tree – Broom-tree wood (a desert shrub) burns longer and hotter than ordinary wood. – Its coals stay red-hot even after flames die, used for smelting and baking. Symbolic Meaning in Psalm 120 • Both images describe the LORD’s sure, penetrating, and consuming judgment on lying tongues. • Arrows picture judgment that finds its target swiftly and inflicts lasting pain. • Broom-tree coals picture judgment that scorches thoroughly, leaving nothing hidden. • Together they assure the psalmist that deceit will not go unanswered; God’s justice will be pointed (arrows) and purifying (fire). Supporting Scriptures • Arrows as divine judgment – “He will sharpen His arrows against them.” (Psalm 64:7) – “He will shoot His arrows at them; they will be wounded suddenly.” (Psalm 64:7) – False witness likened to a “sharp arrow.” (Proverbs 25:18) • Fire/coals as divine judgment – “Upon the wicked He will rain down fiery coals.” (Psalm 11:6) – “May burning coals fall upon them.” (Psalm 140:10) – “In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” (Proverbs 25:21-22) Why the Dual Image Matters • The arrow deals with the specific offense—lies shot like missiles; God answers with truer, stronger arrows. • The coal depicts comprehensive aftermath—falsehood leaves scorched lives; God’s fire cleanses and cauterizes. • The broom-tree detail reminds us God’s judgment is not momentary heat but sustained and thorough. Practical Takeaways • Deception may feel unchecked for a time, but God’s justice is inevitable and exact. • Truth-telling aligns us with the One whose arrows strike deceit. • God’s refining fire, though severe, is ultimately purifying for His people. |
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