This psalm is entitled “A Song of Degrees for Solomon;” in the margin, “Of Solomon.” In the Syriac Version the title is, “From the Psalms of the Ascent; spoken by David concerning Solomon; it was spoken also of Haggai and Zechariah, who urged the rebuilding of the Temple.” The meaning of the title m... [ Continue Reading ]
EXCEPT THE LORD BUILD THE HOUSE - Or rather, “a house.” The word “house” may refer either to an ordinary dwelling; to the temple, as a place of worship; or to a family, with reference to its success and prosperity, as the word house is often used now. The statement is universal, and is designed to i... [ Continue Reading ]
IT IS VAIN FOR YOU TO RISE UP EARLY - The psalmist does not here say that it is improper to rise early; or that there could be no advantage in it; or that people would be more likely to be successful in their undertakings if they did not rise early; but that, although this was done, they would be st... [ Continue Reading ]
LO, CHILDREN ARE AN HERITAGE OF THE LORD - They are an inheritance derived from the Lord. They are bestowed by him as really as success is in building a house, or in guarding a city. The idea is, that everything which we value, or which we desire, is a gift from God, and is to be received as from hi... [ Continue Reading ]
AS ARROWS ARE IN THE HAND OF A MIGHTY MAN - They are what a parent may rely on for defense in danger, or for help in securing provision for himself and family - as the warrior or the hunter relies on his arrows. SO ARE CHILDREN OF THE YOUTH - Sons in their youth; in their prime and vigor. The compa... [ Continue Reading ]
HAPPY IS THE MAN - Hebrew, The happiness of the man. See the notes at Psalms 1:1. THAT HATH HIS QUIVER FULL OF THEM - The quiver is a case in which arrows are carried; and as a man - a hunter or warrior - feels secure when he has his quiver full of arrows, so a man is blessed in proportion to the n... [ Continue Reading ]