Psalms 68:13

Lien among the pots. This difficult passage has been made clear by Ugaritic (see p. 618). The Heb. shephattayim, translated “pots” in the KJV and “sheepfolds” in the RSV, actually means hearthstones. Ancient homes contained two hearthstones, as do also the homes of many nomad Arabs today. Furthermore, the passage should be translated as a question and connected with the previous verse, “Will ye remain seated by the hearthstones?” The query puts to shame those who, in times of a national emergency, stay at home when great issues are at stake.

Covered with silver. A beautiful image, suggesting the play of sunlight upon the plumage of a dove in flight. Several words and phrases used here find close parallels in Ugaritic. However, the purpose of the picture of this flying dove in the context of this psalm is obscure.