CXLVII. Composed of three pieces, without any regular rhythmical structure, and only loosely connected by the same general thought and method of expression, this psalm yet deserves to rank high in the poetry of the Bible. While freely using existing materials, especially Psalms 33, 104; Isaiah 40;... [ Continue Reading ]
Psalms 135:3 is plainly before the poet in this verse; and yet, since Psalms 33 is in other respects his model, it is extremely doubtful whether we ought to change the reading, so as to make a complete correspondence between the verses, or suppose that the alteration was intentional, in accordance w... [ Continue Reading ]
BUILD UP — i.e., of course, “rebuild.” The word “outcasts,” which is that used in Isaiah 11:12; Isaiah 56:8, shows that the rebuilding after the captivity is intended. The LXX. and Vulg. have _“_dispersion;” Symmachus, “those thrust out.”... [ Continue Reading ]
BROKEN IN HEART. — As in Psalms 34:18. (Comp. Isaiah 61:1.) WOUNDS. — See margin, and comp. Job 9:28; Proverbs 15:13.... [ Continue Reading ]
STARS. — This proof of God’s power to help, by reference to the stars of heaven, which are beyond man’s power to count, much more to name, but which the Almighty both numbers and names, seems rather abruptly introduced, but the train of thought is clear. To assemble the dispersed of Israel, however... [ Continue Reading ]
OF GREAT POWER. — Literally, _abounding in power._ INFINITE. — Literally, _without number._ (See Note, Psalms 145:3, and Isaiah 40:28; that prophetic passage being still in the poet’s mind, though the expression is changed.)... [ Continue Reading ]
THE MEEK. — Or, _the afflicted._ (See Note Psalms 22:26.)... [ Continue Reading ]
SING. — Literally, _answer,_ which some think suggests an antiphonal arrangement. Though the strophic arrangement is only loosely marked, the psalm takes a new departure here, with a fresh invocation to praise, going on to fresh proofs from nature of the Almighty Power.... [ Continue Reading ]
COMP. Psalms 104:14; Psalms 145:15; Job 38:41; Luke 12:24. The proper attitude towards one who is thus “great to grant as mighty to make,” is not conceit of wisdom and strength, but humble dependence and trust.... [ Continue Reading ]
STRENGTH OF THE HORSE... LEGS OF A MAN. — This somewhat strange antithesis has been explained to refer to cavalry and infantry, but the much more expressive passage, Psalms 33:16, which was plainly before this poet, would hardly have been altered so strangely. The horse as a type of strength and end... [ Continue Reading ]
PRAISE. — For this verb, properly _stroke,_ or _soothe,_ see Psalms 63:5.... [ Continue Reading ]
FOR HE HATH STRENGTHENED. — An allusion to the new fortifications of the restored city is probable, though the expression is plainly figurative of security and peace. With the second clause comp. Isaiah 60:17.... [ Continue Reading ]
MAKETH PEACE. — Or, _placing as thy border peace._ FINEST OF THE WHEAT. — Literally, _fat of wheat._ (See Psalms 81:16.)... [ Continue Reading ]
Psalms 33 is still in the poet’s thought, and Psalms 147:6 especially; but some extraordinary season of frost seems to have kindled his inspiration, so that he not only elaborates but improves on his model. The word of God is personified as a messenger who runs swiftly forth to do his bidding, at fi... [ Continue Reading ]
LIKE WOOL. — Both in whiteness and fleecy texture. “The snow falls in large flakes, equal in size to a walnut, and has more resemblance to locks of wool than it has in our country” (Niven, _Biblical Antiq.,_ p. 21). “A spice quam densum tacitarum vellus aquarum Defluat. MART., _Ep. iv. 3_.... [ Continue Reading ]
MORSELS. — Or, _crumbs._ (Genesis 18:5; Judges 19:5.) Doubtless the allusion is to hail.... [ Continue Reading ]
JACOB... ISRAEL. — As in the other two pieces into which the psalm divides (Psalms 147:6), the thought passes from the grandeur of God revealed in nature to the divine protection and favour accorded to Israel.... [ Continue Reading ]
ANY NATION. — This boast in Israel’s peculiar and exclusive privilege may be compared with Deuteronomy 4:7; Deuteronomy 32:32. JUDGMENTS. — Here plainly not manifestations of wrath; but, as so frequently in Psalms 119, the display of righteousness towards Israel.... [ Continue Reading ]