Question 1

What does Psalms 85:3 mean?

Accepted Answer

Psalms 85:3 describes God putting aside His anger and no longer expressing fierce judgment toward His people. The verse highlights a turning point where God’s wrath is withdrawn, showing a move from punishment to mercy. In this psalm, the speaker is addressing God, reflecting on a time when God was angry with Israel but has now chosen to relent. The verse sits within a prayer for restoration, recalling how God has forgiven and turned away from punishing the nation, which sets up the hope for continued mercy.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Psalms 85:3

Accepted Answer

"away" (אָסַף, asaf): This word means to gather in or remove. Here, it suggests that God has actively taken away His wrath, not just letting it fade but purposefully removing it. "wrath" (עֶבְרָה, evrah): This word refers to overflowing anger or fury. Its use emphasizes the seriousness of God’s previous anger toward the people. "turned" (שׁוּב, shuv): This word means to turn back or return. In this context, it highlights God’s deliberate decision to change course and withdraw His anger. "fierceness" (חֵמָה, chemah): This word means heat or burning anger. It adds intensity, showing that God’s anger was not mild but fierce. "anger" (אַף, af): This word literally means "nose" or "face," but is often used for anger, picturing the flaring of nostrils in rage. It gives a vivid image of strong emotion.

Question 3

Why Psalms 85:3 matters

Accepted Answer

The verse clarifies that God’s mercy is not automatic but follows a real period of anger and judgment, making His forgiveness more meaningful. By using strong words for anger and then describing God’s turning away from it, the verse emphasizes the depth of both God’s justice and His compassion. This turning point in the psalm connects to the wider theme of restoration, helping readers understand that hope for renewal is based on God’s willingness to forgive.

Psalms 85:3 (KJV)