Judith 9:9 - Look at their pride, and send your wrath upon their heads. Give into my hand, which am a widow, the might that I have conceived.

Generated Verse: Judith 9:9

What does "Judith 9:9" mean?


This verse from Judith 9:9 is a powerful plea to God for divine intervention. Let's break it down:

"Look at their pride...": This refers to the arrogance and hubris of the Assyrian army, led by Holofernes, who are besieging Bethulia. Judith sees their pride as an offense to God.

"...and send your wrath upon their heads.": This is a direct request for God to punish the Assyrians for their pride and aggression. Judith is asking for divine retribution, believing that they deserve to be destroyed.

"Give into my hand, which am a widow...": Judith emphasizes her vulnerability as a widow, a position of weakness and dependence in ancient society. This highlights her reliance on God's power, not her own strength. She presents herself as an unlikely vessel for God's will, making any victory even more miraculous.

"...the might that I have conceived.": This is the most intriguing part of the verse. "The might that I have conceived" can be interpreted in a few ways:

Her plan/courage: It could refer to the courageous and cunning plan Judith has devised to infiltrate the Assyrian camp and assassinate Holofernes. It's a plan that requires boldness and faith.

Divine inspiration: It could also mean the strength and purpose that God has instilled in her. She feels divinely inspired to act, and this verse reflects her confidence that God has empowered her.

Symbolic birth: Some scholars even interpret this as a symbolic birth. Judith is about to bring forth a victory for her people, and this "might" is the power to deliver them.

In essence, Judith is asking God to acknowledge the arrogance of the enemy, unleash his wrath upon them, and grant her the strength, courage, and divine assistance to execute her plan and deliver her people from oppression. The verse underscores themes of faith, vulnerability, and divine justice.