_A.M. 2959. B.C. 1045._
This Psalm contains an admonition, either, 1st, To the chief rulers
of Israel, whether judges or kings, or their great council, called the
Sanhedrim. Or, rather, 2d, To all the rulers of the world, to whom
this word might come; as may be inferred, partly from the expressions... [ Continue Reading ]
_God standeth in the congregation_ As a judge, diligently to observe
all that is said or done there, and to give sentence accordingly. The
judge _sits_ when he hears causes, but _stands_ up when he gives
sentence. Or _standing_ may here be intended, not to denote the
posture of the person, but only... [ Continue Reading ]
_How long will ye judge unjustly?_ The psalmist speaks to them in
God's name, and reproves them for their continued unrighteousness in
their public administrations; _and accept the persons of the wicked_
By overlooking the merits of the cause, and giving sentence according
to your respect or affecti... [ Continue Reading ]
_Defend the poor and fatherless_ As far as justly you may: for so this
clause must be limited, as appears by comparing it with Leviticus
19:15. _Do justice to the afflicted and needy_ Hebrew, הצדיקו,
_hatzdiku, justify him_, namely, when his cause is good, and he is
oppressed by a potent adversary.... [ Continue Reading ]
_They know not_ That is, the magistrates, of whom this Psalm treats,
are not acquainted with, and will not be at the pains to learn the
truth and right of the causes which come before them, nor the duty of
their place. _Neither will they understand_ This their ignorance is
wilful and affected: they... [ Continue Reading ]
_I have said, Ye are gods_ I have given you my name and power to rule
your people in my stead; _and all of you_ Not only the rulers of
Israel, but of all other nations; (for _the powers that be are
ordained of God, Romans 13:1_;) _are children of the Most High_
Representing my person, and bearing bo... [ Continue Reading ]
_Arise, O God, judge the earth_ Seeing the state of the world is so
universally corrupt and desperate, and the vicegerents betray their
trust, and oppress the nations of the earth, which they were appointed
to preserve, do thou, therefore, O God, take the sword of justice into
thine own hand, and ma... [ Continue Reading ]