Psalm 46/Notes/Phrasal.v. 2.23026

V. 2 contains two prepositional phrases (for which see further the Grammatical Diagram above). In for us (לנו), “we/us” is the recipient of God’s actions (i.e., God serves as a refuge for his people, offering them protection and strength).^[1]

↑ GK§102c. On dativus commodi, i.e., signifying an action performed for somebody, see JM§132d; cf. BHRG §39:11[2] f, g, h. Alternatively, “for us” could signify the idea of belonging, i.e., God is “our“ refuge and strength. On the use of ל as a periphrasis for the genetivus poseessoris or auctoris (i.e., the idea of belonging to), see GK§129. In v. 2, “for us” is preferable as it highlights the benefits and advantages of being God's people, that is, he is intentionally X (i.e., a refuge, strength, help, etc.) for them.

[1] GK§102c. On dativus commodi, i.e., signifying an action performed for somebody, see JM§132d; cf. BHRG §39:11[2] f, g, h. Alternatively, “for us” could signify the idea of belonging, i.e., God is “our“ refuge and strength. On the use of ל as a periphrasis for the genetivus poseessoris or auctoris (i.e., the idea of belonging to), see GK§129. In v. 2, “for us” is preferable as it highlights the benefits and advantages of being God's people, that is, he is intentionally X (i.e., a refuge, strength, help, etc.) for them.

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