From the mouth of babes and nursing infants, You establish strength because of Your adversaries, to silence the enemy and the avenger (Psalm 8:2).
The Hebrew language demonstrates exceptional precision in articulating the nuances of strength, employing eight distinct terms to describe physical, heroic, economic, resolute, political, sovereign, praise-related, and stable forms of strength. Matthew 21:16 provides further insight into the term for strength used in Psalm 8:2: “Out of the mouth of inarticulate babblers and nursing infants you have put in order praise.”
When the chief priests and scribes expressed indignation toward the children in the temple who cried out, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” following Jesus’ expulsion of the money changers, Jesus cited Psalm 8:2. In the Greek text, the term used by Jesus refers to a young child who is an inarticulate babbler, capable of speech but lacking understanding of the words spoken. This term was often applied to individuals of any age who lacked discernment regarding matters they should comprehend; c.f. Hebrews 5:13. In this context, the word “strength” is equated with praise, which is understood as the verbal acknowledgment of God’s character. Thus, in Psalm 8:2, the Hebrew conveys strength as the act of offering praise, establishing strength as a reflection of divine character.
In this psalm, David proclaims that the LORD possesses an excellent name throughout the earth, with His majesty established above the heavens (Psalm 8:1). The psalmist then contemplates why, in light of the works of God’s hands, He is mindful of humanity (Psalm 8:3–4).
Paul cites Psalm 8:4–6 in Hebrews 2:6–8 and applies the passage to Jesus. According to Hebrews 2:9, Jesus was made a little lower than the angels, endured death, and was subsequently crowned with glory and honor. This occurred because it was fitting for Him, through whom and by whom all things exist, to lead many sons to glory as the captain of their salvation (Hebrews 2:10).
Human beings occupy a position slightly lower than the angels within the order of creation, yet are elevated above animals. While God did not extend assistance to fallen angels, He provided aid to the descendants of Abraham (Hebrews 2:16). Consequently, God the Son assumed human form, becoming like His brethren in order to serve as a merciful and faithful High Priest in matters pertaining to God, making a satisfaction for the sins of the people (Hebrews 2:17). Therefore, through Christ’s death on behalf of our sins and His resurrection three days later, God offers assistance to those who believe (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).
