Inglés · Biblia y Escrituras
Comentario crítico, práctico y explicativo sobre el Antiguo y el Nuevo Testamento, por Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset y David Brown
Parte 249
The spiritual blessings, as often in Scripture, are set forth by material, the abundance of which is described by a figure, in which a "handful" (or literally, "a piece," or small portion) of corn in the most unpropitious locality, shall produce a crop, waving in the wind in its luxuriant growth, like the forests of Lebanon.
they of the city . . . earth--This clause denotes the rapid and abundant increase of population--
of--or, "from"
the city--Jerusalem, the center and seat of the typical kingdom.
flourish--or, glitter as new grass--that is, bloom. This increase corresponds with the increased productiveness. So, as the gospel blessings are diffused, there shall arise increasing recipients of them, out of the Church in which Christ resides as head.
Psalms 72:17
psa 72:17
His name--or, "glorious perfections."
as long as the sun--(Compare Psa 72:5).
men shall be blessed-- (Gen 12:3; Gen 18:18).
Psalms 72:18
psa 72:18
These words close the Psalm in terms consistent with the style of the context, while Psa 72:20 is evidently, from its prosaic style, an addition for the purpose above explained [see on Psa 72:1].
Psalms 72:20
psa 72:20
ended--literally, "finished," or completed; the word never denotes fulfilment, except in a very late usage, as in Ezr 1:1; Dan 12:7.
Next: Psalms Chapter 73
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Psalms Chapter 73
Psalms 73:1
psa 73:1
Of Asaph--(see Introduction). God is good to His people. For although the prosperity of the wicked, and the afflictions of the righteous, tempted the Psalmist to misgivings of God's government, yet the sudden and fearful ruin of the ungodly, seen in the light of God's revelation, reassures his heart; and, chiding himself for his folly, he is led to confide renewedly in God, and celebrate His goodness and love. (Psa. 73:1-28)
The abrupt announcement of the theme indicates that it is the conclusion of a perplexing mental conflict, which is then detailed (compare Jer 12:1-4).
Truly--or, "Surely it is so."
clean heart-- (Psa 18:26) describes the true Israel.
Psalms 73:2
psa 73:2
The figures express his wavering faith, by terms denoting tottering and weakness (compare Psa 22:5; Psa 62:3).
Psalms 73:3
psa 73:3
The prosperous wicked are insolently proud (compare Psa 5:5). They die, as well as live, free from perplexities: pride adorns them, and violence is their clothing; indeed they are inflated with unexpected success. With all this--
Psalms 73:8
psa 73:8
They are corrupt--or, literally, "they deride," they speak maliciously and arrogantly and invade even heaven with blasphemy (Rev 13:6), and cover earth with slanders (Job 21:7-14).
Psalms 73:10
psa 73:10
Hence God's people are confounded, turned hither (or back) and thither, perplexed with doubts of God's knowledge and care, and filled with sorrow.
Psalms 73:12
psa 73:12
prosper in the word--literally, "secure for ever."
Psalms 73:13
psa 73:13
The Psalmist, partaking of these troubles, is especially disturbed in view of his own case, that with all his diligent efforts for a holy life, he is still sorely tried.
Psalms 73:15
psa 73:15
Freed from idiomatic phrases, this verse expresses a supposition, as, "Had I thus spoken, I should," &c., intimating that he had kept his troubles to himself.
generation of thy children--Thy people (Jo1 3:1).
offend--literally, "deceive, mislead."
Psalms 73:16
psa 73:16
Still he--
thought--literally, "studied," or, "pondered this riddle"; but in vain; it remained a toil (compare Margin), till he--
Psalms 73:17
psa 73:17
went into the sanctuary--to enquire (compare Exo 25:22; Psa 5:7; Psa 27:4).
Psalms 73:18
psa 73:18
their end--future (Psa 37:37-38), which is dismal and terribly sudden (Pro 1:27; Pro 29:1), aggravated and hastened by terror. As one despises an unsubstantial dream, so God, waking up to judgment (Psa 7:6; Psa 44:23), despises their vain shadow of happiness (Psa 39:6; Isa 29:7). They are thrown into ruins as a building falling to pieces (Psa 74:3).
Psalms 73:21
psa 73:21
He confesses how--
foolish--literally, "stupid," and
ignorant--literally, "not discerning," had been his course of thought.
Psalms 73:22
psa 73:22
before thee--literally, "with Thee," in conduct respecting Thee.
Psalms 73:23
psa 73:23
Still he was with God, as a dependent beneficiary, and so kept from falling (Psa 73:2).
Psalms 73:24
psa 73:24
All doubts are silenced in confidence of divine guidance and future glory.
receive me to glory--literally, "take for (me) glory" (compare Psa 68:18; Eph 4:8).
Psalms 73:25
psa 73:25
God is his only satisfying good.
Psalms 73:26
psa 73:26
strength--literally, "rock" (Psa 18:2).
portion-- (Psa 16:5; Lam 3:24).
Psalms 73:27
psa 73:27
The lot of apostates, described by a figure of frequent use (Jer 3:1, Jer 3:3; Eze 23:35), is contrasted with his, who finds happiness in nearness to God (Jam 4:8), and his delightful work the declaration of His praise.
Next: Psalms Chapter 74
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Psalms Chapter 74
Psalms 74:1
psa 74:1
If the historical allusions of Psa 74:6-8, &c., be referred, as is probable, to the period of the captivity, the author was probably a descendant and namesake of Asaph, David's contemporary and singer (compare Ch2 35:15; Ezr 2:41). He complains of God's desertion of His Church, and appeals for aid, encouraging himself by recounting some of God's mighty deeds, and urges his prayer on the ground of God's covenant relation to His people, and the wickedness of His and their common enemy. (Psa. 74:1-23)
cast . . . off--with abhorrence (compare Psa 43:2; Psa 44:9). There is no disavowal of guilt implied. The figure of fire to denote God's anger is often used; and here, and in Deu 29:20, by the word "smoke," suggests its continuance.
sheep . . . pasture--(Compare Psa 80:1; Psa 95:7).
Psalms 74:2
psa 74:2
The terms to denote God's relation to His people increase in force: "congregation"--"purchased"--"redeemed"--"Zion," His dwelling.
Psalms 74:3
psa 74:3
Lift . . . feet-- (Gen 29:1) --that is, Come (to behold) the desolations (Psa 73:19).
Psalms 74:4
psa 74:4
roar--with bestial fury.
congregations--literally, "worshipping assemblies."
ensigns--literally, "signs"--substituted their idolatrous objects, or tokens of authority, for those articles of the temple which denoted God's presence.
Psalms 74:5
psa 74:5
Though some terms and clauses here are very obscure, the general sense is that the spoilers destroyed the beauties of the temple with the violence of woodmen.
was famous--literally, "was known."
Psalms 74:6
psa 74:6
carved work-- (Kg1 6:29).
thereof--that is, of the temple, in the writer's mind, though not expressed till Psa 74:7, in which its utter destruction by fire is mentioned (Kg2 25:9; Isa 64:11).
Psalms 74:7
psa 74:7
defiled--or, "profaned," as in Psa 89:39.
Psalms 74:8
psa 74:8
together--at once, all alike.
synagogues--literally, "assemblies," for places of assembly, whether such as schools of the prophets (Kg2 4:23), or "synagogues" in the usual sense, there is much doubt.
Psalms 74:9
psa 74:9
signs--of God's presence, as altar, ark, &c. (compare Psa 74:4; Ch2 36:18-19; Dan 5:2).
no more any prophet-- (Isa 3:2; Jer 40:1; Jer 43:6).
how long--this is to last. Jeremiah's prophecy (Jer 25:11), if published, may not have been generally known or understood. To the bulk of the people, during the captivity, the occasional and local prophetical services of Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel would not make an exception to the clause, "there is no more any prophet."
Psalms 74:10
psa 74:10
(Compare Psa 31:1).
how long . . . reproach?--us, as deserted of God.
blaspheme thy name--or, "perfections," as power, goodness, &c. (Psa 29:2).
Psalms 74:11
psa 74:11
Why cease to help us? (Compare Psa 3:7; Psa 7:6; Psa 60:5).
Psalms 74:12
psa 74:12
For--literally, "And," in an adversative sense.
Psalms 74:13
psa 74:13
Examples of the "salvation wrought" are cited.
divide the sea--that is, Red Sea.
brakest . . . waters--Pharaoh and his host (compare Isa 51:9-10; Eze 29:3-4).
Psalms 74:14
psa 74:14
heads of leviathan--The word is a collective, and so used for many.
the people . . . wilderness--that is, wild beasts, as conies (Pro 30:25-26), are called a people. Others take the passages literally, that the sea monsters thrown out on dry land were food for the wandering Arabs.
Psalms 74:15
psa 74:15
cleave the fountain--that is, the rocks of Horeb and Kadesh; for fountains.
driedst up--Jordan, and, perhaps, Arnon and Jabbok (Num 21:14).
Psalms 74:16
psa 74:16
The fixed orders of nature and bounds of earth are of God.
Psalms 74:18
psa 74:18
(Compare Psa 74:10; Deu 32:6). The contrast is striking--that such a God should be thus insulted!
Psalms 74:19
psa 74:19
multitude--literally, "beast," their flock or company of men (Psa 68:10).
turtledove--that is, the meek and lonely Church.
congregation--literally, "the company," as above--thus the Church is represented as the spoiled and defeated remnant of an army, exposed to violence.
Psalms 74:20
psa 74:20
And the prevalence of injustice in heathen lands is a reason for invoking God's regard to His promise (compare Num 14:21; Psa 7:16; Psa 18:48).
Psalms 74:21
psa 74:21
oppressed--broken (Psa 9:9).
return--from seeking God.
ashamed-- (Psa 35:4).
Psalms 74:22
psa 74:22
(Compare Psa 3:7; Psa 7:6). God hears the wicked to their own ruin (Gen 4:10; Gen 18:20).
Next: Psalms Chapter 75
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Psalms Chapter 75
Psalms 75:1
psa 75:1
Al-taschith--(See on Psa 57:1, title). In impending danger, the Psalmist, anticipating relief in view of God's righteous government, takes courage and renders praise. (Psa 75:1-10)
God's name or perfections are set forth by His wondrous works.
Psalms 75:2
psa 75:2
These verses express the purpose of God to administer a just government, and in a time of anarchy that He sustains the nation. Some apply the words to the Psalmist.
receive the congregation--literally, "take a set time" (Psa 102:13; Hos 2:3), or an assembly at a set time--that is, for judging.
Psalms 75:3
psa 75:3
pillars of it-- (Sa1 2:8).
Psalms 75:4
psa 75:4
Here the writer speaks in view of God's declaration, warning the wicked.
Lift . . . up the horn--to exalt power, here, of the wicked himself--that is, to be arrogant or self-elated.
Psalms 75:5
psa 75:5
speak . . . neck--insolently.
Psalms 75:6
psa 75:6
promotion--literally, "a lifting up." God is the only right judge of merit.
Psalms 75:8
psa 75:8
in the hand . . . a cup . . . red--God's wrath often thus represented (compare Isa 51:17 Jer 25:15).
but the dregs--literally, "surely the dregs, they shall drain it."
Psalms 75:9
psa 75:9
Contrasted is the lot of the pious who will praise God, and, acting under His direction, will destroy the power of the wicked, and exalt that of the righteous.
Next: Psalms Chapter 76
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Psalms Chapter 76
Psalms 76:1
psa 76:1
On Neginoth--(See on Psa 4:1, title). This Psalm commemorates what the preceding anticipates: God's deliverance of His people by a signal interposition of power against their enemies. The occasion was probably the events narrated in Kg2 19:35; Isa. 37:1-28. (Compare Psa 46:1-11). (Psa 76:1-12)
These well-known terms denote God's people and Church and His intimate and glorious relations to them.
Psalms 76:2
psa 76:2
Salem-- (Gen 14:18) is Jerusalem.
Psalms 76:3
psa 76:3
brake . . . the arrows--literally, "thunderbolts" (Psa 78:48), from their rapid flight or ignition (compare Psa 18:14; Eph 6:16).
the battle--for arms (Hos 2:18).
Psalms 76:4
psa 76:4
Thou--God.
mountains of prey--great victorious nations, as Assyria (Isa 41:15; Eze 38:11-12; Zac 4:7).
Psalms 76:5
psa 76:5
slept their sleep--died (Psa 13:3).
none . . . found . . . hands--are powerless.
Psalms 76:6
psa 76:6
chariot and horse--for those fighting on them (compare Psa 68:17).
Psalms 76:7
psa 76:7
may . . . sight--contend with Thee (Deu 9:4; Jos 7:12).
Psalms 76:8
psa 76:8
God's judgment on the wicked is His people's deliverance (Psa 9:12; Psa 10:7).
Psalms 76:10
psa 76:10
Man's wrath praises God by its futility before His power.
restrain--or, "gird"; that is, Thyself, as with a sword, with which to destroy, or as an ornament to Thy praise.
Psalms 76:11
psa 76:11
Invite homage to such a God (Ch2 32:23), who can stop the breath of kings and princes when He wills (Dan 5:23).
Next: Psalms Chapter 77
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Psalms Chapter 77
Psalms 77:1
psa 77:1
To Jeduthun--(See on Psa 39:1, title). In a time of great affliction, when ready to despair, the Psalmist derives relief from calling to mind God's former and wonderful works of delivering power and grace. (Psa. 77:1-20)
expresses the purport of the Psalm.
Psalms 77:2
psa 77:2
his importunacy.
my sore ran . . . night--literally, "my hand was spread," or, "stretched out" (compare Psa 44:20).
ceased not--literally, "grew not numb," or, "feeble" (Gen 45:26; Psa 38:8).
my soul . . . comforted--(compare Gen 37:35; Jer 31:15).
Psalms 77:3
psa 77:3
His sad state contrasted with former joys.
was troubled--literally, "violently agitated," or disquieted (Psa 39:6; Psa 41:5).
my spirit was overwhelmed--or, "fainted" (Psa 107:5; Jon 2:7).
Psalms 77:4
psa 77:4
holdest . . . waking--or, "fast," that I cannot sleep. Thus he is led to express his anxious feelings in several earnest questions indicative of impatient sorrow.
Psalms 77:10
psa 77:10
Omitting the supplied words, we may read, "This is my affliction--the years of," &c., "years" being taken as parallel to affliction (compare Psa 90:15), as of God's ordering.
Psalms 77:11
psa 77:11
He finds relief in contrasting God's former deliverances. Shall we receive good at His hands, and not evil? Both are orderings of unerring mercy and unfailing love.
Psalms 77:13
psa 77:13
Thy way . . . in the sanctuary--God's ways of grace and providence (Psa 22:3; Psa 67:2), ordered on holy principles, as developed in His worship; or implied in His perfections, if "holiness" be used for "sanctuary," as some prefer translating (compare Exo 15:11).
Psalms 77:14
psa 77:14
Illustrations of God's power in His special interventions for His people (Exo. 14:1-31), and, in the more common, but sublime, control of nature (Psa 22:11-14; Hab 3:14) which may have attended those miraculous events (Exo 14:24).
Psalms 77:15
psa 77:15
Jacob and Joseph--representing all.
Psalms 77:19
psa 77:19
waters . . . , footsteps--may refer to His actual leading the people through the sea, though also expressing the mysteries of providence.
Next: Psalms Chapter 78
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Psalms Chapter 78
Psalms 78:1
psa 78:1
This Psalm appears to have been occasioned by the removal of the sanctuary from Shiloh in the tribe of Ephraim to Zion in the tribe of Judah, and the coincident transfer of pre-eminence in Israel from the former to the latter tribe, as clearly evinced by David's settlement as the head of the Church and nation. Though this was the execution of God's purpose, the writer here shows that it also proceeded from the divine judgment on Ephraim, under whose leadership the people had manifested the same sinful and rebellious character which had distinguished their ancestors in Egypt. (Psa. 78:1-72)
my people . . . my law--the language of a religious teacher (Psa 78:2; Lam 3:14; Rom 2:16, Rom 2:27; compare Psa 49:4). The history which follows was a "dark saying," or riddle, if left unexplained, and its right apprehension required wisdom and attention.
Psalms 78:3
psa 78:3
This history had been handed down (Exo 12:14; Deu 6:20) for God's honor, and that the principles of His law might be known and observed by posterity. This important sentiment is reiterated in (Psa 78:7-8) negative form.
Psalms 78:5
psa 78:5
testimony-- (Psa 19:7).
Psalms 78:8
psa 78:8
stubborn and rebellious-- (Deu 21:18).
set not their heart--on God's service (Ch2 12:14).
Psalms 78:9
psa 78:9
The privileges of the first-born which belonged to Joseph (Ch1 5:1-2) were assigned to Ephraim by Jacob (Gen 48:1). The supremacy of the tribe thus intimated was recognized by its position (in the marching of the nation to Canaan) next to the ark (Num 2:18-24), by the selection of the first permanent locality for the ark within its borders at Shiloh, and by the extensive and fertile province given for its possession. Traces of this prominence remained after the schism under Rehoboam, in the use, by later writers, of Ephraim for Israel (compare Hos 5:3-14; Hos 11:3-12). Though a strong, well-armed tribe, and, from an early period, emulous and haughty (compare Jos 17:14; Jdg 8:1-3; Sa2 19:41), it appears, in this place, that it had rather led the rest in cowardice than courage; and had incurred God's displeasure, because, diffident of His promise, though often heretofore fulfilled, it had failed as a leader to carry out the terms of the covenant, by not driving out the heathen (Exo 23:24; Deu 31:16; Kg2 17:15).
Psalms 78:12
psa 78:12
A record of God's dealings and the sins of the people is now made. The writer gives the history from the exode to the retreat from Kadesh; then contrasts their sins with their reasons for confidence, shown by a detail of God's dealings in Egypt, and presents a summary of the subsequent history to David's time.
Zoan--for Egypt, as its ancient capital (Num 13:22; Isa 19:11).
Psalms 78:15
psa 78:15
There were two similar miracles (Exo 17:6; Num 20:11).
great depths--and--rivers--denote abundance.
Psalms 78:17
psa 78:17
yet more--literally, "added to sin," instead of being led to repentance (Rom 2:4).
Psalms 78:18
psa 78:18
in their heart-- (Mat 15:19).
for their lust--literally, "soul," or, "desire."
provoking--and--tempted--illustrated by their absurd doubts,
Psalms 78:19
psa 78:19
in the face of His admitted power.
Psalms 78:21
psa 78:21
fire--the effect of the "anger" (Num 11:1).
Psalms 78:22
psa 78:22
(Compare Heb 8:8-9).
Psalms 78:23
psa 78:23
(Compare Exo 16:11-15; Num 11:4-9).
Psalms 78:25
psa 78:25
angels' food--literally, "bread of the mighty" (compare Psa 105:40); so called, as it came from heaven.
meat--literally, "victuals," as for a journey.
Psalms 78:29
psa 78:29
their . . . desire--what they longed for.
Psalms 78:30
psa 78:30
not estranged . . . lust--or, "desire"--that is, were indulging it.
Psalms 78:31
psa 78:31
slew . . . fattest--or, "among the fattest"; some of them--
chosen--the young and strong (Isa 40:31), and so none could resist.
Psalms 78:33
psa 78:33
Though there were partial reformations after chastisement, and God, in pity, withdrew His hand for a time, yet their general conduct was rebellious, and He was thus provoked to waste and destroy them, by long and fruitless wandering in the desert.
Psalms 78:36
psa 78:36
lied . . . tongues--a feigned obedience (Psa 18:44).
Psalms 78:37
psa 78:37
heart . . . not right--or, "firm" (compare Psa 78:8; Psa 51:10).
Psalms 78:39
psa 78:39
a wind . . . again--literally, "a breath," thin air (compare Psa 103:16; Jam 4:14).
Psalms 78:40
psa 78:40
There were ten temptations (Num 14:22).
Psalms 78:41
psa 78:41
limited--as in Psa 78:19-20. Though some prefer "grieved" or "provoked." The retreat from Kadesh (Deu 1:19-23) is meant, whether--
turned--be for turning back, or to denote repetition of offense.
Psalms 78:43
psa 78:43
wrought--set or held forth.
Psalms 78:45
psa 78:45
The dog-fly or the mosquito.
Psalms 78:46
psa 78:46
caterpillar--the Hebrew name, from its voracity, and that of--
locust--from its multitude.
Psalms 78:47
psa 78:47
The additional effects of the storm here mentioned (compare Exo 9:23-34) are consistent with Moses' account.
Psalms 78:48
psa 78:48
gave . . . cattle--literally, "shut up" (compare Psa 31:8).
Psalms 78:49
psa 78:49
evil angels--or, "angels of evil"--many were perhaps employed, and other evils inflicted.
Psalms 78:50
psa 78:50
made a way--removed obstacles, gave it full scope.
Psalms 78:51
psa 78:51
chief of their strength--literally, "first-fruits," or, "first-born" (Gen 49:3; Deu 21:17).
Ham--one of whose sons gave name (Mizraim, Hebrew) to Egypt.
Psalms 78:52
psa 78:52
made his . . . forth--or, brought them by periodical journeys (compare Exo 15:1).
Psalms 78:54
psa 78:54
border of his sanctuary--or, "holy border"--i. e., region of which--
this mountain--(Zion) was, as the seat of civil and religious government, the representative, used for the whole land, as afterwards for the Church (Isa 25:6-7).
purchased--or, "procured by His right hand" or power (Psa 60:5).
Psalms 78:55
psa 78:55
by line--or, the portion thus measured.
divided them--that is, the heathen, put for their possessions, so tents--that is, of the heathen (compare Deu 6:11).
Psalms 78:56
psa 78:56
a deceitful bow--which turns back, and so fails to project the arrow (Sa2 1:22; Hos 7:16). They relapsed.
Psalms 78:58
psa 78:58
Idolatry resulted from sparing the heathen (compare Psa 78:9-11).
Psalms 78:59
psa 78:59
heard--perceived (Gen 11:7).
abhorred--but not utterly.
Psalms 78:60
psa 78:60
tent . . . placed--literally, "caused to dwell," set up (Jos 18:1).
Psalms 78:61
psa 78:61
his strength--the ark, as symbolical of it (Psa 96:6).
Psalms 78:62
psa 78:62
gave--or, "shut up."
his people-- (Psa 78:48; Sa1 4:10-17).
Psalms 78:63
psa 78:63
fire--either figure of the slaughter (Sa1 4:10), or a literal burning by the heathen.
given to marriage--literally, "praised"--that is, as brides.
Psalms 78:64
psa 78:64
(Compare Sa1 4:17); and there were, doubtless, others.
made no lamentation--either because stupefied by grief, or hindered by the enemy.
Psalms 78:65
psa 78:65
(Compare Psa 22:16; Isa 42:13).
Psalms 78:66
psa 78:66
And he smote . . . part--or, "struck His enemies' back." The Philistines never regained their position after their defeats by David.
Psalms 78:67
psa 78:67
tabernacle of Joseph--or, "home," or, "tribe," to which--
tribe of Ephraim--is parallel (compare Rev 7:8). Its pre-eminence was, like Saul's, only permitted. Judah had been the choice (Gen 49:10).
Psalms 78:69
psa 78:69
Exalted as--
high palaces--or, "mountains," and abiding as--the earth.
Psalms 78:70
psa 78:70
God's sovereignty was illustrated in this choice. The contrast is striking--humility and exaltation--and the correspondence is beautiful.
Psalms 78:71
psa 78:71
following . . . ewes, &c.--literally, "ewes giving suck" (compare Isa 40:11). On the pastoral terms, compare Psa 79:13.
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Psalms Chapter 79
Psalms 79:1
psa 79:1
This Psalm, like the seventy-fourth, probably depicts the desolations of the Chaldeans (Jer 52:12-24). It comprises the usual complaint, prayer, and promised thanks for relief. (Psa 79:1-13)
(Compare Psa 74:2-7).
Psalms 79:2
psa 79:2
(Compare Jer 15:3; Jer 16:4).
Psalms 79:4
psa 79:4
(Compare Psa 44:13; Jer 42:18; Lam 2:15).
Psalms 79:5
psa 79:5
How long-- (Psa 13:1).
be angry-- (Psa 74:1-10).
jealousy burn-- (Deu 29:20).
Psalms 79:6
psa 79:6
(Compare Jer 10:25). Though we deserve much, do not the heathen deserve more for their violence to us (Jer 51:3-5; Zac 1:14)? The singular denotes the chief power, and the use of the plural indicates the combined confederates.
called upon--or, "by"
thy name--proclaimed Thy attributes and professed allegiance (Isa 12:4; Act 2:21).
Psalms 79:8
psa 79:8
former iniquities--literally, "iniquities of former times."
prevent us--literally, "meet us," as in Psa 21:3.
Psalms 79:9
psa 79:9
for . . . glory of thy name [and for] thy name's sake--both mean for illustrating Thy attributes, faithfulness, power, &c.
purge . . . sins--literally, "provide atonement for us." Deliverance from sin and suffering, for their good and God's glory, often distinguish the prayers of Old Testament saints (compare Eph 1:7).
Psalms 79:10
psa 79:10
This ground of pleading often used (Exo 32:12; Num 14:13-16).
blood . . . shed-- (Psa 79:3).
Psalms 79:11
psa 79:11
prisoner--the whole captive people.
power--literally, "arm" (Psa 10:15).
Psalms 79:12
psa 79:12
into their bosom--The lap or folds of the dress is used by Eastern people for receiving articles. The figure denotes retaliation (compare Isa 65:6-7). They reproached God as well as His people.
Psalms 79:13
psa 79:13
sheep . . . pasture--(Compare Psa 74:1; Psa 78:70).
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Psalms Chapter 80
Psalms 80:1
psa 80:1
Shoshannim--"Lilies" (see on Psa 45:1, title). Eduth--Testimony, referring to the topic as a testimony of God to His people (compare Psa 19:7). This Psalm probably relates to the captivity of the ten tribes, as the former to that of Judah. Its complaint is aggravated by the contrast of former prosperity, and the prayer for relief occurs as a refrain through the Psalm. (Psa. 80:1-19)
Joseph--for Ephraim (Ch1 7:20-29; Psa 78:67; Rev 7:8), for Israel.
Shepherd--(Compare Gen 49:24).
leadest, &c.-- (Psa 77:20).
dwellest . . . cherubim-- (Exo 25:20); the place of God's visible glory, whence He communed with the people (Heb 9:5).
shine forth--appear (Psa 50:2; Psa 94:1).
Psalms 80:2
psa 80:2
Before Ephraim, &c.--These tribes marched next the ark (Num 2:18-24). The name of Benjamin may be introduced merely in allusion to that fact, and not because that tribe was identified with Israel in the schism (Kg1 12:16-21; compare also Num 10:24).
Psalms 80:3
psa 80:3
Turn us--that is, from captivity.
thy face to shine-- (Num 6:25).
Psalms 80:4
psa 80:4
be angry--(Compare Margin.)
Psalms 80:5
psa 80:5
bread of tears--still an Eastern figure for affliction.
Psalms 80:6
psa 80:6
strife--object or cause of (Isa 9:11). On last clause compare Psa 79:4; Eze 36:4.
Psalms 80:8
psa 80:8
brought--or, "plucked up," as by roots, to be replanted.
a vine-- (Psa 78:47). The figure (Isa 16:8) represents the flourishing state of Israel, as predicted (Gen 28:14), and verified (Kg1 4:20-25).
Psalms 80:12
psa 80:12
hedges-- (Isa 5:5).
Psalms 80:13
psa 80:13
The boar--may represent the ravaging Assyrian and
the wild beast--other heathen.
Psalms 80:14
psa 80:14
visit this vine--favorably (Psa 8:4).
Psalms 80:15
psa 80:15
And the vineyard--or, "And protect or guard what thy right hand," &c.
the branch--literally, "over the Son of man," preceding this phrase, with "protect" or "watch."
for thyself--a tacit allusion to the plea for help; for
Psalms 80:16
psa 80:16
it--the "vine" or
they--the "people" are suffering from Thy displeasure.
Psalms 80:17
psa 80:17
thy hand . . . upon--that is, strengthen (Ezr 7:6; Ezr 8:22).
man of . . . hand--may allude to Benjamin (Gen 35:18). The terms in the latter clause correspond with those of Psa 80:15, from "and the branch," &c., literally, and confirm the exposition given above.
Psalms 80:18
psa 80:18
We need quickening grace (Psa 71:20; Psa 119:25) to persevere in Thy right worship (Gen 4:26; Rom 10:11).
Psalms 80:19
psa 80:19
(Compare Psa 80:3, "O God"; Psa 80:7, "O God of hosts").
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Psalms Chapter 81
Psalms 81:1
psa 81:1
Gittith--(See on Psa 8:1, title). A festal Psalm, probably for the passover (compare Mat 26:30), in which, after an exhortation to praise God, He is introduced, reminding Israel of their obligations, chiding their neglect, and depicting the happy results of obedience. (Psa. 81:1-16)
our strength-- (Psa 38:7).
Psalms 81:2
psa 81:2
unites the most joyful kinds of music, vocal and instrumental.
Psalms 81:3
psa 81:3
the new moon--or the month.
the time appointed--(Compare Pro 7:20).
Psalms 81:5
psa 81:5
a testimony--The feasts, especially the passover, attested God's relation to His people.
Joseph--for Israel (Psa 80:1).
went out through--or, "over," that is, Israel in the exodus.
I heard--change of person. The writer speaks for the nation.
language--literally, "lip" (Psa 14:1). An aggravation or element of their distress that their oppressors were foreigners (Deu 28:49).
Psalms 81:6
psa 81:6
God's language alludes to the burdensome slavery of the Israelites.
Psalms 81:7
psa 81:7
secret place--the cloud from which He troubled the Egyptians (Exo 14:24).
proved thee-- (Psa 7:10; Psa 17:3) --tested their faith by the miracle.
Psalms 81:8
psa 81:8
(Compare Psa 50:7). The reproof follows to Psa 81:12.
if thou wilt hearken--He then propounds the terms of His covenant: they should worship Him alone, who (Psa 81:10) had delivered them, and would still confer all needed blessings.
Psalms 81:11
psa 81:11
They failed, and He gave them up to their own desires and hardness of heart (Deu 29:18; Pro 1:30; Rom 11:25).
Psalms 81:13
psa 81:13
Obedience would have secured all promised blessings and the subjection of foes. In this passage, "should have," "would have," &c., are better, "should" and "would" expressing God's intention at the time, that is, when they left Egypt.
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Psalms Chapter 82
Psalms 82:1
psa 82:1
Before the great Judge, the judges of the earth are rebuked, exhorted, and threatened. (Psa 82:1-8)
congregation--(Compare Exo 12:3; Exo 16:1).
of the mighty--that is, of God, of His appointment.
the gods--or, "judges" (Exo 21:6; Exo 22:9), God's representatives.
Psalms 82:2
psa 82:2
accept the persons--literally, "lift up the faces," that is, from dejection, or admit to favor and communion, regardless of merit (Lev 19:15; Pro 18:5).
Psalms 82:3
psa 82:3
So must good judges act (Psa 10:14; Job 29:12).
Psalms 82:4
psa 82:4
poor and needy--(Compare Psa 34:10; Psa 41:1).
Psalms 82:5
psa 82:5
By the wilful ignorance and negligence of judges, anarchy ensues (Psa 11:3; Psa 75:3).
out of course--(Compare Margin; Psa 9:6; Psa 62:2).
Psalms 82:6
psa 82:6
Though God admitted their official dignity (Joh 10:34), He reminds them of their mortality.
Psalms 82:7
psa 82:7
fall like, &c.--be cut off suddenly (Psa 20:8; Psa 91:7).
Psalms 82:8
psa 82:8
As rightful sovereign of earth, God is invoked personally to correct the evils of His representatives.
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Psalms Chapter 83
Psalms 83:1
psa 83:1
Of Asaph--(See on Psa 74:1, title). The historical occasion is probably that of Ch2 20:1-2 (compare Psa 47:1-9; Psa 48:1-14). After a general petition, the craft and rage of the combined enemies are described, God's former dealings recited, and a like summary and speedy destruction on them is invoked. (Psa. 83:1-18)
God addressed as indifferent (compare Psa 35:22; Psa 39:12).
be not still--literally, "not quiet," as opposed to action.
Psalms 83:2
psa 83:2
thine enemies--as well as ours (Psa 74:23; Isa 37:23).
Psalms 83:3
psa 83:3
hidden ones--whom God specially protects (Psa 27:5; Psa 91:1).
Psalms 83:4
psa 83:4
from being a nation--utter destruction (Isa 7:8; Isa 23:1).
Israel--here used for Judah, having been the common name.
Psalms 83:5
psa 83:5
they have consulted--with heart, or cordially.
together--all alike.
Psalms 83:6
psa 83:6
tabernacles--for people (Psa 78:67).
they--all these united with the children of Lot, or Ammonites and Moabites (compare Ch2 20:1).
Psalms 83:9
psa 83:9
Compare the similar fate of these (Ch2 20:23) with that of the foes mentioned in Jdg 7:22, here referred to. They destroyed one another (Jdg. 4:6-24; Jdg 7:25). Human remains form manure (compare Kg2 9:37; Jer 9:22).
Psalms 83:12
psa 83:12
The language of the invaders.
houses--literally, "residences," enclosures, as for flocks (Psa 65:12).
of God--as the proprietors of the land (Ch2 20:11; Isa 14:25).
Psalms 83:13
psa 83:13
like a wheel--or, whirling of any light thing (Isa 17:13), as stubble or chaff (Psa 1:4).
Psalms 83:14
psa 83:14
Pursue them to an utter destruction.
Psalms 83:16
psa 83:16
that they may seek--or as Psa 83:18, supply "men," since Psa 83:17-18 amplify the sentiment of Psa 83:16, expressing more fully the measure of destruction, and the lesson of God's being and perfections (compare Ch2 20:29) taught to all men.
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Psalms Chapter 84
Psalms 84:1
psa 84:1
(See on Psa 8:1, title, and Psa 42:1, title). The writer describes the desirableness of God's worship and prays for a restoration to its privileges. (Psa 84:1-12)
amiable--not lovely, but beloved.
tabernacles-- (Psa 43:3).
Psalms 84:2
psa 84:2
longeth--most intensely (Gen 31:30; Psa 17:12).
fainteth--exhausted with desire.
courts--as tabernacles (Psa 84:1) --the whole building.
crieth out--literally, "sings for joy"; but here, and Lam 2:19, expresses an act of sorrow as the corresponding noun (Psa 17:1; Psa 61:2).
heart and . . . flesh--as in Psa 63:1.
Psalms 84:3
psa 84:3
thine altars--that is, of burnt offering and incense, used for the whole tabernacle. Its structure afforded facilities for sparrows and swallows to indulge their known predilections for such places. Some understand the statement as to the birds as a comparison: "as they find homes, so do I desire thine altars," &c.
Psalms 84:4
psa 84:4
This view is favored by the language here, which, as in Psa 15:1; Psa 23:6, recognizes the blessing of membership in God's family by terms denoting a dwelling in His house.
Psalms 84:5
psa 84:5
(Compare Psa 68:28).
in whose heart . . . the ways--that is, who knows and loves the way to God's favor (Pro 16:17; Isa 40:3-4).
Psalms 84:6
psa 84:6
valley of Baca--or, "weeping." Through such, by reason of their dry and barren condition, the worshippers often had to pass to Jerusalem. As they might become wells, or fountains, or pools, supplied by refreshing rain, so the grace of God, by the exercises of His worship, refreshes and revives the hearts of His people, so that for sorrows they have "rivers of delight" (Psa 36:8; Psa 46:4).
Psalms 84:7
psa 84:7
The figure of the pilgrim is carried out. As such daily refit their bodily strength till they reach Jerusalem, so the spiritual worshipper is daily supplied with spiritual strength by God's grace till he appears before God in heaven.
appeareth . . . God--the terms of the requisition for the attendance on the feasts (compare Deu 16:16),
Psalms 84:9
psa 84:9
God is addressed as a shield (compare Psa 84:11).
thine anointed--David (Sa1 16:12).
Psalms 84:10
psa 84:10
I had . . . doorkeeper--literally, "I choose to sit on the threshold," the meanest place.
Psalms 84:11
psa 84:11
As a sun God enlightens (Psa 27:1); as a shield He protects.
grace--God's favor, its fruit--
glory--the honor He bestows.
uprightly-- (Psa 15:2; Psa 18:23).
Psalms 84:12
psa 84:12
that trusteth--constantly.
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Psalms Chapter 85
Psalms 85:1
psa 85:1
On the ground of former mercies, the Psalmist prays for renewed blessings, and, confidently expecting them, rejoices. (Psa 85:1-13)
captivity--not necessarily the Babylonian, but any great evil (Psa 14:7).
Psalms 85:2
psa 85:2
(Compare Psa 32:1-5).
Psalms 85:3
psa 85:3
To turn from the "fierceness," implies that He was reconcilable, though
Psalms 85:4
psa 85:4
having still occasion for the anger which is deprecated.
Psalms 85:5
psa 85:5
draw out--or, "prolong" (Psa 36:10).
Psalms 85:8
psa 85:8
He is confident God will favor His penitent people (Psa 51:17; Psa 80:18).
saints--as in Psa 4:3, the "godly."
Psalms 85:9
psa 85:9
They are here termed "them that fear him"; and grace produces glory (Psa 84:11).
Psalms 85:10
psa 85:10