Psalms Part 5: The Deuteronomy Book (No. F019

Songs of Ascents

What now follows are the Songs of Ascents. Bullinger attributes these psalms from 120 to 134 to Hezekiah (seemingly based on the 15 degree decline of the sun). They each bear the title Shir ha-ma'aloth, The Soncino notes the titles and states that ma'aloth means ascending stages but there was disagreement to its meaning. The Soncino notes that in the Mishnaic description of the Temple it is stated that “Fifteen steps led up from within it (the Court of the Women) to the court of the Israelites, corresponding to the 15 Songs of Ascents in the Psalms. And upon them the Levites would sing' (Middoth ii. 5). At the ceremony of Rejoicing at the place of Water-drawing on the Festival of Tabernacles, the Levites were stationed upon the fifteen steps leading from the Court of the Women to the Court of the Israelites, corresponding to the fifteen Songs of Ascents in the Psalms. It was upon these that the Levites stood with their musical instruments and sang their songs' (Sukkah v. 4). From these references it was deduced that the fifteen Psalms received their title from these steps (Rashi, Ibn Ezra and Kimchi).

Another theory is that the title was given during the building of the Temple. According to the Talmud (ibid 53a, b), after the foundations were dug the water level rose and threatened to inundate the entire area. David inscribed the [Ineffable] Name on a shard, cast it into the deep which then subsided sixteen thousand cubits into the earth, Exclaiming “the nearer it is to the earth, the better the earth can be kept watered”, he uttered the fifteen Songs of Ascents and the Deep reascended fifteen thousand cubits remaining but one thousand cubits [below the surface].

Still another theory put forward is that of Rabbi Saadia Gaon (cf. Meiri, Ibn Ezra). He suggests that the songs were part of a musical arrangement that was begun in a low voice which progressively grew louder. He further commented that their composer is not named, and they might have been of a divine source, their intention being to offer solace to those in exile who could only pray to God for deliverance.

Yet another explanation is offered by Kimchi. The ascents relate to the redemption of the Jews from exile and their return to the land of Israel, which will take place in three stages (ma' aloth). Others see it as the release from the Babylonian exile and the eventual return to Judea (cf. Psalm CXXVI). “ (Soncino: Intro to Songs of Ascents).

Understanding the Psalms and the meaning of their progressive development rests on Scripture itself. The Purpose of the Creation and the Sacrifice of Christ (No. 160) is an integral element of the Plan of Salvation (No. 001A) which was in effect to render the Elect as Elohim (No. 001) as sons of God. This plan and process is reflected throughout the Psalms. The proper explanation to the meaning of the Songs of Ascents lies in the sequence of the Books from Books 1 to 5 and culminates in Book 5 from Pss. 107 to 119. It does indeed refer to the restoration of Israel, including Judah, as the rabbinical writers supposed. We saw the psalms develop over the books to Book 5 and then from Psalm 107 to 110 we saw the Messianic process to the elevation of Messiah to High Priest of Melchisedek (Heb. Ch. 8) over the Elect of the Host of the First Resurrection under David which we saw in his reference to his resurrection in the sequence. The role of the Law under the Glory of God is coupled from 110 to 112. The Hallel sequence then goes from Pss. 113-118 which extolls the movement of Isael into the promised land and the establishment under the Law in Psalm 119, showing the Nature of God and its relationship to the Law of God. The Songs of Ascents develop the thirty centuries or sixty jubilees from David to the Restoration under Messiah at the end of this age and the First Resurrection of the elect and the Restoration of the Temple as described in Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel (F026x, xi, xii). There are two jubilees (or 100 years) allocated to each person at the re-education program of the Second Resurrection (No. 143B) (Isa. 65:20). The sequence of the Empires and the wars are described in Daniel; and Daniel 12 described the final wars of the end (see also F027xi, xii, xiii) (see also Nos. 036, & 036_2). The fifteen steps show the gradual elevation of mankind through religious exercise and faith from the Court of the Women which encompasses all of mankind including the Gentiles over the fifteen steps of the Temple of God moving from Humans symbolised by the Court of the Women to the Elohim of the Host (see Psalms 82 and 86) as part of the Combined Host under Messiah, given to Messiah by Eloah, as his inheritance (see Deut. 32:8-9). That result is the aim of the Creation of Man as the Temple of God (No. 282D) symbolised by the Court of the Israelites. (see Nos 001B & 001C); See also Nos 282A, 282B and 282C and the Return of the King (No. 282E). The entire Plan of Salvation and God's Law (L1) and God's Calendar (No. 156) are contained within the Scriptures, and they cannot be broken (Jn. 10:24-36). Antinomianism and the Heaven and Hell doctrines of the demons are designed to strike at the very heart of the Plan of God and this sequence.

The Court of the Israelites symbolises Israel under the Apostles from the First Resurrection as per Revelation chapter 7 (F066ii).

The Slanderous Tongue

Psalm 120

120:1 A Song of Ascents. In my distress I cry to the LORD, that he may answer me: ²"Deliver me, O LORD, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue." ³What shall be given to you? And what more shall be done to you, you deceitful tongue? ⁴A warrior's sharp arrows, with glowing coals of the broom tree! ⁵Woe is me, that I sojourn in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar! ⁶Too long have I had my dwelling among those who hate peace. ⁷I am for peace; but when I speak, they are for war!

Intent of Psalm 120

vv. 1-2 A prayer to God for relief from the words of a deceiver (Jas. 3:5-12).

vv. 3-4 God answers the prayer with severe punishment (Psa. 11:7-13). The broom tree produced especially hot long-burning coals.

vv. 5-7 Distressed by those around him who are hostile and warlike (Isa. 21:16). These are the remote tribes of the North in Asia Minor and North East in northern Arabia which will continue the hostilities into the last days.

This characteristic of slander and malice is of Satan as accuser of the brethren and was one of the reasons the Sardis Church in the Last Days was declared dead and the Laodicean system was spewed from the mouth of God. It is also endemic in Israel in all its national groups and will be stamped out of the nations in the Last Days.

Psalm 121

121:1 A Song of Ascents. I lift up my eyes to the hills. From whence does my help come? ²My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth. ³He will not let your foot be moved, he who keeps you will not slumber. ⁴Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. ⁵The LORD is your keeper; the LORD is your shade on your right hand. ⁶The sun shall not smite you by day, nor the moon by night. ⁷The LORD will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. ⁸The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and for evermore.

Intent of Psalm 121

vv. 1-2 The Creator God is our support in time of need. The Purpose of the Creation and the Sacrifice of Christ (No. 160).

vv. 3-4 God maintains a secure watch over Israel.

vv. 5-6 Our daily lives are protected by God (Isaiah 4:5-6).

vv. 7-8 Our entire life is under the guardianship of God (Deut. 28:6).

Psalm 122

122:1 A Song of Ascents. Of David. I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD!" ²Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem! ³Jerusalem, built as a city which is bound firmly together, ⁴to which the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. ⁵There thrones for judgment were set, the thrones of the house of David. ⁶Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! "May they prosper who love you! ⁷Peace be within your walls, and security within your towers!" ⁸For my brethren and companions' sake I will say, "Peace be within you!" ⁹For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good.

Intent of Psalm 122

vv. 1-4 The tribes of God go up to Jerusalem to keep the appointed feasts of the Lord in Leviticus 23 and Deuteronomy 16. This will be the case also at the return of the Messiah for all feasts and New Moons in the millennial system. The nations will send their representatives to Jerusalem at Tabernacles each year or they will be punished and die (see Isa. 66:23-24; Zech. 14:16-19).

vv. 5-9 For the sake of the Temple of God, prayer is requested for peace, prosperity, and security for those who love Jerusalem. This will be required for all ages into the future until the ascents are finally complete and mankind are all elohim, as we see from Psalm 86.

Psalm 123

123:1 A Song of Ascents. To thee I lift up my eyes, O thou who art enthroned in the heavens! ²Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he have mercy upon us. ³Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us, for we have had more than enough of contempt. ⁴Too long our soul has been sated with the scorn of those who are at ease, the contempt of the proud.

Intent of Psalm 123

vv. 1-2 The eyes of the faithful look to God for their very life. A humble submission to the will of God.

vv. 3-4 A prayer for God to have mercy on those who are suffering from the distain of those who do not rely on God (Psalm 10:2-11).

This is another step for the elect in the ascent to elohim as the body of Israel in the Temple of God.

Psalm 124

124:1 A Song of Ascents. Of David. If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, let Israel now say-- ²if it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us, ³then they would have swallowed us up alive, when their anger was kindled against us; ⁴then the flood would have swept us away, the torrent would have gone over us; then over us would have gone the raging waters. ⁶Blessed be the LORD, who has not given us as prey to their teeth! ⁷We have escaped as a bird from the snare of the fowlers; the snare is broken, and we have escaped! ⁸Our help is in the name of the LORD, who made heaven and earth.

Intent of Psalm 124

vv. 1-5 Israel realizes that God saved them from certain destruction (Psa. 94:17).

vv. 4-5 Comp. 32:6; 69:1-2, 14-15.

vv. 6-8 It is the Creator God who is our sure defence from those who would cause us harm (Psa. 94:22).

Thanksgiving for the deliverance of the elect.

Psalm 125

125:1 A Song of Ascents. Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides for ever. ²As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people, from this time forth and for evermore. ³For the scepter of wickedness shall not rest upon the land allotted to the righteous, lest the righteous put forth their hands to do wrong. ⁴Do good, O LORD, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts! ⁵But those who turn aside upon their crooked ways the LORD will lead away with evildoers! Peace be in Israel!

Intent of Psalm 125

vv. 1-2 The faithful acknowledge that God is their protector for all time (Psa. 46:1-3).

v. 3 God will not allow unjust rulers to prevail over Israel causing the righteous to lose faith (Neh. 6:1-14).

vv. 4-5 A prayer for God to bless the faithful and a warning to those who deviate from God’s way under the Law and the Testimony (Psa.18:25-27).

Psalm 126

126:1 A Song of Ascents. When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. ²Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them." ³The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad. ⁴Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like the watercourses in the Negeb! ⁵May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy! ⁶He that goes forth weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

Intent of Psalm 126

vv. 1-3 The people remember with joy the blessings God gave them in the past.

vv. 4-6 A prayer for God to again bless them with that which brought so much joy (Psa. 20:5). The restoration of the fortunes of Israel is the final result of the return of the Messiah and the Second Exodus of Isa. 65:15-66:24 for the millennial kingdom.

Psalm 127

127:1 A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. ²It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep. ³Lo, sons are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. ⁴Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons of one's youth. ⁵Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.

Intent of Psalm 127 (A wisdom Psalm)

vv. 1-2 Dependence upon God rather that oneself is needed for shelter, safety, and food (Deut. 28:1-14). A safe home and a productive family is the gift of God.

vv. 3-5 God provides the defence through many sons against enemies encountered even at the gates.

Psalm 128

128:1 A Song of Ascents. Blessed is every one who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways! ²You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you. ³Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive shoots around your table. ⁴Lo, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the LORD. ⁵The LORD bless you from Zion! May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life! ⁶May you see your children's children! Peace be upon Israel!

Intent of Psalm 128

vv. 1-2 Those who have deep respect for God in what they do, will be blest with happiness and well-being (Psa. 34:7-11).

vv. 3-4 Their wife and children will be a blessing to them.

vv. 5-6 A prayer for God to cause Jerusalem to thrive and bless them with a long life. The restoration under Messiah will see blessings flow from Zion to Israel and the world.

Psalm 129

129:1 A Song of Ascents. "Sorely have they afflicted me from my youth," let Israel now say-- ²"Sorely have they afflicted me from my youth, yet they have not prevailed against me. ³The plowers plowed upon my back; they made long their furrows." ⁴The LORD is righteous; he has cut the cords of the wicked. ⁵May all who hate Zion be put to shame and turned backward! ⁶Let them be like the grass on the housetops, which withers before it grows up, ⁷with which the reaper does not fill his hand or the binder of sheaves his bosom, ⁸while those who pass by do not say, "The blessing of the LORD be upon you! We bless you in the name of the LORD!"

Intent of Psalm 129

vv. 1-4 Israel remembers how they suffered in the past and how God set them free (Ex. 14:29-31). The adversary afflicted the elect and their families for generations but they did not prevail.

vv. 5-8 A prayer for God to bring Israel’s enemies to nothing and that no one is to bless them. This will be the result of the Messianic system.

Psalm 130

130:1 A Song of Ascents. Out of the depths I cry to thee, O LORD! ²Lord, hear my voice! Let thy ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications! ³If thou, O LORD, shouldst mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? ⁴But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared. ⁵I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; ⁶my soul waits for the LORD more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning. ⁷O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD there is steadfast love, and with him is plenteous redemption. ⁸And he will redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

Intent of Psalm 130

vv. 1-4 An earnest prayer which asks for God’s mercy for sinfulness, the result of which is a deep respect for him (Psa. 32:1-2).

vv. 5-8 Waiting on God brings about hope, through his love, for Israel’s salvation from sinfulness (Psa. 27:14). It is in the final stages of forgiveness and redemption that the elect become elohim (No. 001), as we see in the next four songs of Ascent.

Psalm 131

131:1 A Song of Ascents. Of David. O LORD, my heart is not lifted up, my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. ²But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a child quieted at its mother's breast; like a child that is quieted is my soul. ³O Israel, hope in the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.

Intent of Psalm 131

v. 1 A humble admission of God’s surpassing greatness (Psa. 31:23).

v. 2 Relying on God for his comfort and assurance.

v. 3 Hoping in God brings contentment and the expected result will follow on to the elect as the Israel of God in the Resurrections.

Psalm 132

132:1 A Song of Ascents. Remember, O LORD, in David's favor, all the hardships he endured; ²how he swore to the LORD and vowed to the Mighty One of Jacob, ³"I will not enter my house or get into my bed; ⁴I will not give sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, ⁵until I find a place for the LORD, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob." ⁶Lo, we heard of it in Ephrathah, we found it in the fields of Jaar. ⁷"Let us go to his dwelling place; let us worship at his footstool!" ⁸Arise, O LORD, and go to thy resting place, thou and the ark of thy might. ⁹Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness, and let thy saints shout for joy. ¹⁰For thy servant David's sake do not turn away the face of thy anointed one. ¹¹The LORD swore to David a sure oath from which he will not turn back: "One of the sons of your body I will set on your throne. ¹²If your sons keep my covenant and my testimonies which I shall teach them, their sons also for ever shall sit upon your throne." ¹³For the LORD has chosen Zion; he has desired it for his habitation: ¹⁴"This is my resting place for ever; here I will dwell, for I have desired it. ¹⁵I will abundantly bless her provisions; I will satisfy her poor with bread. ¹⁶Her priests I will clothe with salvation, and her saints will shout for joy. ¹⁷There I will make a horn to sprout for David; I have prepared a lamp for my anointed. ¹⁸His enemies I will clothe with shame, but upon himself his crown will shed its luster."

Intent of Psalm 132

vv.1-5 A prayer for God to remember David’s desire to build a Temple for him (2Sam. 7:1-2).

In vv. 2 and 5 God is referred to as the Mighty one SHD 046 'abiyr.

vv. 6-10 A prayer for God to honour David’s vow regarding a Temple for his worship. (1Kgs. 8:27-30)

vv. 11-12 David’s dynasty (1Kgs. 7:4-5). It is from this line that the star was to come out of Jacob and the sceptre from Judah (Num. 24:17). The Sceptre for Israel is in Judah (Gen. 49:10). This line was to result in Messiah as the son of God given Jerusalem as his inheritance (Deut. 32:8-9 and Rev. Chs. 21-22 F066v).

vv. 13-16 God expresses his preference to have Jerusalem for his Temple and to bless her people with prosperity, grace, and happiness. (Deut. 12:5)

vv. 17-18 God will increase David’s authority and influence. (1Kgs. 11:36)

Psalm 133

133:1 A Song of Ascents. Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! ²It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down upon the beard, upon the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes! ³It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the LORD has commanded the blessing, life for evermore.

Intent of Psalm 133

v. 1 Joy of fellowship is praised.

v. 2 Ordination of Aaron (Ex. 29:30).

v. 3 Fellowship brings God’s blessing of life forever.

Psalm 134

134:1 A Song of Ascents. Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, who stand by night in the house of the LORD! ²Lift up your hands to the holy place, and bless the LORD! ³May the LORD bless you from Zion, he who made heaven and earth!

Intent of Psalm 134

vv. 1-2 The priests who minister in the Temple during the night, are asked to praise and bless God (1Chr. 9:33).

v. 3 A prayer for the Creator God to bless Israel from Jerusalem.

This final 15th Song of Ascents marks the culmination of the Plan of Salvation No. 001A.

The Human Elect and the gentiles, through the Resurrections, are about to enter the Court of the Israelites as sons of God as elohim, with the Messiah as High Priest of the order of Melchisedek (Ps. 110) which is what Psalm 135 demonstrates as we now see (Heb. 1:8-9; Ch. 8; see #001, 128).

Psalm 135

135:1 Praise the LORD! Praise the name of the LORD, give praise, O servants of the LORD, ²you that stand in the house of the LORD, in the courts of the house of our God! ³Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good; sing to his name, for he is gracious! ⁴For the LORD has chosen Jacob for himself, Israel as his own possession. ⁵For I know that the LORD is great, and that our Lord is above all gods. ⁶Whatever the LORD pleases he does, in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all deeps. ⁷He it is who makes the clouds rise at the end of the earth, who makes lightnings for the rain and brings forth the wind from his storehouses. ⁸He it was who smote the first-born of Egypt, both of man and of beast; ⁹who in thy midst, O Egypt, sent signs and wonders against Pharaoh and all his servants; ¹⁰who smote many nations and slew mighty kings, ¹¹Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, and all the kingdoms of Canaan, ¹²and gave their land as a heritage, a heritage to his people Israel. ¹³Thy name, O LORD, endures for ever, thy renown, O LORD, throughout all ages. ¹⁴For the LORD will vindicate his people, and have compassion on his servants. ¹⁵The idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. ¹⁶They have mouths, but they speak not, they have eyes, but they see not, ¹⁷they have ears, but they hear not, nor is there any breath in their mouths. ¹⁸Like them be those who make them!--yea, every one who trusts in them! ¹⁹O house of Israel, bless the LORD! O house of Aaron, bless the LORD! ²⁰O house of Levi, bless the LORD! You that fear the LORD, bless the LORD! ²¹Blessed be the LORD from Zion, he who dwells in Jerusalem! Praise the LORD!

Intent of Psalm 135

All the signs and wonders that He has done throughout all the ages- not only this present age- come together in this Psalm to give the evidence of our faith, as the elect of God.

vv. 1-2 A call to all God’s servants (Elohim SHD 430) in all their ranks and positions to praise Him (Pss. 50:1; 113:3; Isa. 45:6; Mal. 1:11).

vv. 3-13 Recalling God’s works throughout the ages. (Job 42:1-6). The One True God is above all.

vv. 5-7 God's control of nature.

vv. 8-12 deals with the Exodus and the conquest of Palestine.

v. 11 of Sihon ...Og (Num. 21:21-35).

v. 14 The LORD will have compassion on those that serve Him and vindicate them.

vv. 15-18 The self-righteous will be made dumb and deaf as their idols (Ex. 4:11; Job 40:1-5). There is no other God besides Him. He alone is great. He contrasts Himself to the idols and those who fashion them. God can see all things, knows all things by His own understanding, hears all things even that which is said in a man’s heart, and from His mouth all things proceed (Psa. 33:6, 9; Gen. 2:7; Isa. 48:3; Job 33:4).

vv. 19-21 So rejoice! Those who have been set apart as holy to God:

House of Israel

House of Aaron

House of Levi

All who fear God

All in Zion

And Jerusalem.

Psalm 136

136:1 O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures for ever. ²O give thanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures for ever. ³O give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ⁴to him who alone does great wonders, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ⁵to him who by understanding made the heavens, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ⁶to him who spread out the earth upon the waters, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ⁷to him who made the great lights, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ⁸the sun to rule over the day, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ⁹the moon and stars to rule over the night, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹⁰to him who smote the first-born of Egypt, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹¹and brought Israel out from among them, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹²with a strong hand and an outstretched arm, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹³to him who divided the Red Sea in sunder, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹⁴and made Israel pass through the midst of it, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹⁵but overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹⁶to him who led his people through the wilderness, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹⁷to him who smote great kings, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹⁸and slew famous kings, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ¹⁹Sihon, king of the Amorites, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ²⁰and Og, king of Bashan, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ²¹and gave their land as a heritage, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ²²a heritage to Israel his servant, for his steadfast love endures for ever. ²³It is he who remembered us in our low estate, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ²⁴and rescued us from our foes, for his steadfast love endures for ever; ²⁵he who gives food to all flesh, for his steadfast love endures for ever. ²⁶O give thanks to the God of heaven, for his steadfast love endures for ever.

Intent of Psalm 136

This Psalm shows why God has done His many mighty acts and wonders among His servants across the ages: for His steadfast love endureth forever. This phrase is repeated for emphasis 26 times with remembrances of His interventions and mercies:

vv. 1-4 Give thanks to the LORD who is good, the God of gods (Elohim of Elohim SHD 430). This is the One True God of Psalm 45, the God of the Messiah, Lord of lords.

vv. 5-10 Creation of the heavens.

vv. 10-22 Fighting the battles of His people.

Overthrowing the greatest rulers of mankind.

Providing every need in our safety, food, and even heritage, all because He is love and loves us.

This Psalm also highlights the process of spiritual warfare; God’s steadfast love is greater than any army or foe we can face. Our battles are won.

As we go forth “in holy array” (2Chr. 5:11-14) ahead of the armies declaring the name of God,

Giving thanks to Him because “His steadfast love endureth forever!” (2Chr. 20; Eph. 6:12; Phil. 4:4-7).

vv. 23-26 He remembered our low estate, rescued us from our foes and gave us provisions (Num. 10:9; Pss. 78:39; 98:3). Therefore, give thanks to the God of heaven.

Psalm 137

137:1 By the waters of Babylon, there we sat down and wept, when we remembered Zion. ²On the willows there we hung up our lyres. ³For there our captors required of us songs, and our tormentors, mirth, saying, "Sing us one of the songs of Zion!" ⁴ How shall we sing the LORD's song in a foreign land? ⁵If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand wither! ⁶Let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth, if I do not remember you, if I do not set Jerusalem above my highest joy! ⁷Remember, O LORD, against the Edomites the day of Jerusalem, how they said, "Raze it, raze it! Down to its foundations!" ⁸O daughter of Babylon, you devastator! Happy shall he be who requites you with what you have done to us! ⁹Happy shall he be who takes your little ones and dashes them against the rock!

Intent of Psalm 137

This Psalm reminds us that we are not yet taken out of the Babylonian system but remain in the world while not being of the world (Jn. 17:13-21). When we turn aside from God’s laws, and feasts, He removes from us our mirth and the voice of joy (song) (Hos. 2:11). They were captive for their sins, and they no longer had the LORD’s song in their mouth.

v. 1 The waters of Babylon are the tumultuous waters of trial and the sinful system of Babylon (the opposite of the living waters of the holy spirit). They lost power to sing to God and were laden with grief (Mat. 5:4).

vv. 2-4 Surrounded by idols among the groves, they hung up their instruments of praise and wept (exchanged joy for mourning).

vv. 5-7 If we forget our true home, the heavenly country (the City of God) let our strength be removed. Let my right hand be removed can also refer to our spiritual inheritance.

The mourner declares his allegiance to God and to the promises seen afar off by the eyes of faith. (Heb.11:13-16).

vv. 7-9 A plea for God to remember the persecutions that we have suffered and to take delight in vindicating us, making an end even of the offspring of Babylon (Dan. 2:34-35, 45).

Psalm 138

138:1 A Psalm of David. I give thee thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart; before the gods I sing thy praise; ²I bow down toward thy holy temple and give thanks to thy name for thy steadfast love and thy faithfulness; for thou hast exalted above everything thy name and thy word. ³On the day I called, thou didst answer me, my strength of soul thou didst increase. ⁴All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O LORD, for they have heard the words of thy mouth; ⁵and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD, for great is the glory of the LORD. ⁶For though the LORD is high, he regards the lowly; but the haughty he knows from afar. ⁷Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou dost preserve my life; thou dost stretch out thy hand against the wrath of my enemies, and thy right hand delivers me. ⁸The LORD will fulfil his purpose for me; thy steadfast love, O LORD, endures for ever. Do not forsake the work of thy hands.

Intent of Psalm 138

vv. 1-2 Thankfulness is a fruit of the holy spirit and is to be given with our petitions (Gal. 5:22; Phil. 4:6). When we remember God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, our response as believers should be gratitude, praise and awe because God has exalted His name and His word above all things.

v. 3 So great and powerful is He, yet on the day that we call upon Him, He answers us. Our faith and strength are increased in this process being repeated throughout our lives (Pss. 8:4, 144:3).

vv. 4-6 References the time when all nations and kings will flow unto Jerusalem to worship and sing the praises of God from one New Moon to another, from Feast to Feast and Sabbath to Sabbath (Pss. 22:27; 86:9; Isa. 2:2; 25:7; 66:23; Jer. 3:7; Zech. 14:16; Rev. 15:4). This will be done for His glory which is great.

v. 7 Reminiscent of Psalm 23, walking in the valley of the shadow of death, without fear of evil because His rod and staff are there comforting us, protecting us by the shepherd, His right hand.

vv. 8-9 Confidence that God will accomplish His will and purpose and we are part of that purpose.

A plea to not forsake the work of His hands. Throughout the Psalms, we see this juxtaposition of the believer having full confidence of protection, vindication and deliverance, and then reminding God how mighty or numerous are the foes against us and pleading for mercy according to His steadfast love. We are the work of His hands, asking Him not to forsake us. (Lk. 15:4-7)

Psalm 139

139:1 To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. O LORD, thou hast searched me and known me! ²Thou knowest when I sit down and when I rise up; thou discernest my thoughts from afar. ³Thou searchest out my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. ⁴Even before a word is on my tongue, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. ⁵Thou dost beset me behind and before, and layest thy hand upon me. ⁶Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain it. ⁷Whither shall I go from thy Spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? ⁸If I ascend to heaven, thou art there! If I make my bed in Sheol, thou art there! ⁹If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, ¹⁰even there thy hand shall lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. ¹¹If I say, "Let only darkness cover me, and the light about me be night," ¹²even the darkness is not dark to thee, the night is bright as the day; for darkness is as light with thee. ¹³For thou didst form my inward parts, thou didst knit me together in my mother's womb. ¹⁴I praise thee, for thou art fearful and wonderful. Wonderful are thy works! Thou knowest me right well; ¹⁵my frame was not hidden from thee, when I was being made in secret, intricately wrought in the depths of the earth. ¹⁶Thy eyes beheld my unformed substance; in thy book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. ¹⁷How precious to me are thy thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! ¹⁸If I would count them, they are more than the sand. When I awake, I am still with thee. ¹⁹O that thou wouldst slay the wicked, O God, and that men of blood would depart from me, ²⁰men who maliciously defy thee, who lift themselves up against thee for evil! ²¹Do I not hate them that hate thee, O LORD? And do I not loathe them that rise up against thee? ²²I hate them with perfect hatred; I count them my enemies. ²³Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! ²⁴And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!

Intent of Psalm 139

vv. 1-18 This Psalm gives insight into the relationship the believer has with God; to be one with Him. God initiates the relationship by His omniscience. We are formed by His will, and He already knows all that we will be before we are manifest. This insight produces awe and loyalty in the believer. The believer is known, guided, searched out and examined all about. Everything he has done, or thought is known to God (v. 1-6 comp. vv. 23-24). This does not mean God examines to know who we are, He already knows, and it is written in His book. He examines His work, no doubt concluding it is “very good” (Gen. 1:31). The believer realizes that he is loved steadfastly even though yet not perfect. He draws confidence in his paths from that love. God knows his struggles and his enemies are not hidden. The darkness and the light are alike to God.

v. 8 Sheol 88:5-6 n. God formed him in the womb and knew his character from his conception.

vv. 19-22 Inspire confidence and boldness in the believer that justice will indeed prevail, and he will be protected and avenged because the enemy is actually against God. The believer wants to stand for God against any who do not love and acknowledge the greatness of God and be led in the way everlasting. Declaring that he hates those who hate God. The word for God in v. 19 is Eloah (elowahh) the One True God (SHD 433). This being is the Eternal Father alone. (see ## 002; 116).

v. 23 The believer is committed to his calling knowing God is righteous, knows all things, is able to correct his errors, make him righteous, and give him salvation. He declares his submission to that process in the hand of God.

Psalm 140

140:1 To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. Deliver me, O LORD, from evil men; preserve me from violent men, ²who plan evil things in their heart, and stir up wars continually. ³They make their tongue sharp as a serpent's, and under their lips is the poison of vipers. Selah

⁴Guard me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from violent men, who have planned to trip up my feet. ⁵Arrogant men have hidden a trap for me, and with cords they have spread a net, by the wayside they have set snares for me. Selah

⁶I say to the LORD, Thou art my God; give ear to the voice of my supplications, O LORD! ⁷O LORD, my Lord, my strong deliverer, thou hast covered my head in the day of battle. ⁸Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further his evil plot! Selah

⁹Those who surround me lift up their head, let the mischief of their lips overwhelm them! ¹⁰Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast into pits, no more to rise! ¹¹Let not the slanderer be established in the land; let evil hunt down the violent man speedily! ¹²I know that the LORD maintains the cause of the afflicted, and executes justice for the needy. ¹³Surely the righteous shall give thanks to thy name; the upright shall dwell in thy presence.

Intent of Psalm 140

vv. 1-4 Pleading to God for full deliverance from the evil that is encompassing him at every turn.

vv. 5-8 God upholds and carries the needs of the afflicted and gives justice. Only God can give deliverance that is lasting. The head covered in battle, reminds us of the helmet of salvation as part of the armour of God (Eph. 6:17; 1Thes. 5:8).

In v. 7 the name for Lord is Adonay (SHD 136) an emphatic form of Lord used only of God rather than SHD 3068 (see also Psa. 141:8 below). God is SHD 3069 Yahovih read by Hebrew scholars as Elohim to differentiate it from Yahovah (SHD 3068) which can be used of Messiah as elsewhere in the psalms, or others of the Angelic Host (see # 024). (see also 141:8 below).

vv. 9 Suffering and surrounded, he wants all the evil that the wicked put out to come upon them quickly and overwhelm them, rather than the righteous being overwhelmed.

vv. 12 God’s steadfast love judges righteously.

v. 13 The righteous will give the praises due to God and the upright will dwell with Him (Psa.23).

Psalm 141

141:1 A Psalm of David. I call upon thee, O LORD; make haste to me! Give ear to my voice, when I call to thee! ²Let my prayer be counted as incense before thee, and the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice! ³Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD, keep watch over the door of my lips! ⁴Incline not my heart to any evil, to busy myself with wicked deeds in company with men who work iniquity; and let me not eat of their dainties! ⁵Let a good man strike or rebuke me in kindness, but let the oil of the wicked never anoint my head; for my prayer is continually against their wicked deeds. ⁶When they are given over to those who shall condemn them, then they shall learn that the word of the LORD is true. ⁷As a rock which one cleaves and shatters on the land, so shall their bones be strewn at the mouth of Sheol. ⁸But my eyes are toward thee, O LORD God; in thee I seek refuge; leave me not defenseless! ⁹Keep me from the trap which they have laid for me, and from the snares of evildoers! ¹⁰Let the wicked together fall into their own nets, while I escape.

Intent of Psalm 141

vv. 1-2 Plea for the believer’s prayers to come up to God as pleasing, sweet incense in the evening sacrifice (Rev. 8:3-4; 2Cor. 2:15).

vv. 3-4 Asking that God keep a guard on David's mouth, that he not partake in evil speech (Pss. 32:2; 39:1; Prov. 18:21; Jer. 9:8; Zeph. 3:13; Jas. 1:26; 3:5-8; 1Pet. 3:10; Rev. 14:5). The elect love the truth more than a lie. (2Thes. 2:9-13). The believer asks God to keep him from even self-deceit, that he have no evil thought, word or deed.

vv. 5-7 Humility. He would rather be rebuked by a brother in kindness, then go down an evil path (Prov. 13:1; 17:10; 27:5; Eccl. 7:5). Evil is given over or judged, by those who shall condemn them, the elect (1Cor. 6:3). Then they shall learn that the word of God is true. Evil will be crushed as a rock turned to dust, remembered no more.

vv. 8-9 The believer will seek safety from God alone, who has promised to provide a way of escape from the nets of the wicked and ensnare them in their own nets. Lord here in v. 8 is Adonay (SHD 136). God is Yahovih (SHD 3069) here also see 140:7 above.

In these psalms after the Songs of Ascents we see the name of God reiterated as the Father, Eloah the One True God (Psa. 139:19), who alone is immortal (Jn. 17:3, 1Tim. 6:16). He alone is Yahovih which is also reiterated in these subsequent psalms at 140:7 and 141:8. Messiah is distinguished as the subordinate God of Psalm 45. The Hebrew texts makes clear in many places the positions of the Messiah as subordinate God of Israel and Eloah as the Ha Elohim or Creator God of the Bible texts as Yahovih also. He alone is the true God and had nothing coeval with himself when he began to create. He created all of the Elohim host (Job 38:4-7; Prov. 30:4-5).

***

Here we now go on to the psalms of David dealing with the development of the Spirit and Salvation in the servants of God.

Psalm 142

142:1 A Maskil of David, when he was in the cave. A Prayer. I cry with my voice to the LORD, with my voice I make supplication to the LORD, ²I pour out my complaint before him, I tell my trouble before him. ³When my spirit is faint, thou knowest my way! In the path where I walk they have hidden a trap for me. ⁴I look to the right and watch, but there is none who takes notice of me; no refuge remains to me, no man cares for me. ⁵I cry to thee, O LORD; I say, Thou art my refuge, my portion in the land of the living. ⁶Give heed to my cry; for I am brought very low! Deliver me from my persecutors; for they are too strong for me! ⁷Bring me out of prison, that I may give thanks to thy name! The righteous will surround me; for thou wilt deal bountifully with me.

Intent of Psalm 142

The supplications oft repeated in the Psalms, of help me, deliver me! but also that the believer:

vv. 1-2 David tells all of his troubles to God.

vv. 3-4 Even when most alone and in trouble, God knows the way.

v. 5 God is his refuge (he will be safe when pursued)

God is his portion, (he will have provisions and home) even in this life.

v. 6-7 He is brought out of bondage of every sort, so that he may give thanks to God’s name. He can expect God to deal with him bountifully and surround him with others who are righteous. This hope is important for the believer, so he faints not in the trials (Psa. 27:13).

Psalm 143

143:1 A Psalm of David. Hear my prayer, O LORD; give ear to my supplications! In thy faithfulness answer me, in thy righteousness! ²Enter not into judgment with thy servant; for no man living is righteous before thee. ³For the enemy has pursued me; he has crushed my life to the ground; he has made me sit in darkness like those long dead. ⁴Therefore my spirit faints within me; my heart within me is appalled. ⁵I remember the days of old, I meditate on all that thou hast done; I muse on what thy hands have wrought. ⁶I stretch out my hands to thee; my soul thirsts for thee like a parched land. Selah

⁷Make haste to answer me, O LORD! My spirit fails! Hide not thy face from me, lest I be like those who go down to the Pit. ⁸Let me hear in the morning of thy steadfast love, for in thee I put my trust. Teach me the way I should go, for to thee I lift up my soul. ⁹Deliver me, O LORD, from my enemies! I have fled to thee for refuge! ¹⁰Teach me to do thy will, for thou art my God! Let thy good spirit lead me on a level path! ¹¹For thy name's sake, O LORD, preserve my life! In thy righteousness bring me out of trouble! ¹²And in thy steadfast love cut off my enemies, and destroy all my adversaries, for I am thy servant.

Intent of Psalm 143

vv. 1-4 There will be times that the spirit of the believer faints within him from intense and/or lengthy sufferings. When sensing this seeming failing of his faithfulness to God, he cries out to God to save him from the pit:

v. 5 I remember your mighty acts.

v. 6 I thirst for you as in a dry and parched land (Psa. 63:1; Isa. 41:17; Act. 8:11; Mat. 5:6).

v. 7 Look upon me, make a difference between me and those who are not in your favour.

v. 8 Let me hear from you how much you love me, comfort me.

Teach me to obey you and your will, (humility) for I do not know how unless it is you that shows me. Do this because you are my God and I serve only you. Show me how.

v. 9 Deliver me from my enemies because it is to you that I ran.

v. 10 Lead me by your spirit on less treacherous ground (make it easier for me, God). Acknowledging this is a war in the spirit realm, rejection of any spirit other than God’s.

v. 11 For your name’s sake, preserve my life, if I am dead who will praise you?

Bring me out of trouble because you alone are righteous and see clearly and are just.

v. 12 Because I serve you, cut off my enemies, that I may continue to serve you.

Total commitment to God and His will. We belong to Him, we are in His hand (Rom. 14:8).

Psalm 144

144:1 A Psalm of David. Blessed be the LORD, my rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle; ²my rock and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield and he in whom I take refuge, who subdues the peoples under him. ³O LORD, what is man that thou dost regard him, or the son of man that thou dost think of him? ⁴Man is like a breath, his days are like a passing shadow. ⁵Bow thy heavens, O LORD, and come down! Touch the mountains that they smoke! ⁶Flash forth the lightning and scatter them, send out thy arrows and rout them! ⁷Stretch forth thy hand from on high, rescue me and deliver me from the many waters, from the hand of aliens, ⁸whose mouths speak lies, and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood. ⁹I will sing a new song to thee, O God; upon a ten-stringed harp I will play to thee, ¹⁰who givest victory to kings, who rescuest David thy servant. ¹¹Rescue me from the cruel sword, and deliver me from the hand of aliens, whose mouths speak lies, and whose right hand is a right hand of falsehood. ¹²May our sons in their youth be like plants full grown, our daughters like corner pillars cut for the structure of a palace; ¹³may our garners be full, providing all manner of store; may our sheep bring forth thousands and ten thousands in our fields; ¹⁴may our cattle be heavy with young, suffering no mischance or failure in bearing; may there be no cry of distress in our streets! ¹⁵Happy the people to whom such blessings fall! Happy the people whose God is the LORD!

Intent of Psalm 144

This Psalm is overflowing with the intensity of the zeal of David, (1Sam. 13:14; Act. 13:22). It shows how to glorify God and declare His triumphs in the battlefield of our lives.

vv. 1-2 All battles won are because God gives even the ability for our hands to war and fight and prevail. Not by our strength but by God’s. (Pss. 33:16; 44:3, 6, 7; 2Chr. 32:8, 9, 21; Jer. 9:23).

vv. 3-4 God is mindful of man who is as nothing and provides a heritage and a future for us overflowing with blessings.

vv. 5-6 The believer desires to soon be close to God and wants Him to lower the curtain of the heavens (Isa. 40:22) and come down, to hasten the Day of the LORD, to subdue all nations, false systems, and peoples under His righteous hand.

vv. 7-8/11 Plea to rescue the believer from the foe and all their falsehood and lies. The Psalms often mention the pain of lies against him, this is because the believer loves the truth and hates a lie (2Thes. 2:9-13).

vv. 9-10 The fight is not his, but God’s. The believer would rather spend his days in new songs of praise to God, than striving with mighty men and taking his own vengeance. Vengeance belongs to God, and we are free to go and praise God for His mighty works and deliverance and steadfast love (Deut. 32:35, 41, 43; 58:10; 94:1; 149:7; Isa. 34:8; 35:4; 59:17; 61:2; 63:4; Lk. 21:22; Rom. 12:19; Heb. 10:30).

vv. 12-15 The blessings concerning posterity, heritage and provisions both physically and spiritually. Heritage in the house of God forever. Our sanctified children will be as trees and pillars in the temple and no more go out (Rev. 3:12). In the Father’s house are many mansions (Jn. 14:2).

Psalm 145

145:1 A Song of Praise. Of David. I will extol thee, my God and King, and bless thy name for ever and ever. ²Every day I will bless thee, and praise thy name for ever and ever. ³Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable. ⁴One generation shall laud thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. ⁵On the glorious splendor of thy majesty, and on thy wondrous works, I will meditate. ⁶Men shall proclaim the might of thy terrible acts, and I will declare thy greatness. ⁷They shall pour forth the fame of thy abundant goodness, and shall sing aloud of thy righteousness. ⁸The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. ⁹The LORD is good to all, and his compassion is over all that he has made. ¹⁰All thy works shall give thanks to thee, O LORD, and all thy saints shall bless thee! ¹¹They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and tell of thy power, ¹²to make known to the sons of men thy mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of thy kingdom. ¹³Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endures throughout all generations. The LORD is faithful in all his words, and gracious in all his deeds. ¹⁴The LORD upholds all who are falling, and raises up all who are bowed down. ¹⁵The eyes of all look to thee, and thou givest them their food in due season. ¹⁶Thou openest thy hand, thou satisfiest the desire of every living thing. ¹⁷The LORD is just in all his ways, and kind in all his doings. ¹⁸The LORD is near to all who call upon him, to all who call upon him in truth. ¹⁹He fulfils the desire of all who fear him, he also hears their cry, and saves them. ²⁰The LORD preserves all who love him; but all the wicked he will destroy. ²¹My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD, and let all flesh bless his holy name for ever and ever.

Intent of Psalm 145

This Psalm adeptly declares God’s nature. His steadfast love for mankind and every living thing. This Psalm speaks for itself very clearly and can be read and re-read, a reminder of how great, mighty, loving God is. It gives us the words to use in praise of God. This is how we bless His holy name.

vv. 1-3 The believer will every day lift up, magnify, extol his God and King, and bless His name at all times. A commitment to focus on God and His greatness in our roles as the priesthood. The LORD is unsearchably great. He will be praised greatly for ever.

v. 4 Each generation will pass on to the next accounts of His mighty acts and works. (Ex. 12:26; 13:8, 9, 14, 15, 22; Deut. 4:10; 6:7; 11:19; 32:7; Josh. 4:6, 7, 21-24; Isa. 38:19); so that they might know God as well and believe unlike their fathers (Ps. 78: 3-6).

v. 5 Meditate upon those wondrous works and the glorious splendour of His Majesty. Although we cannot imagine it truly, we try to envision the glory of His splendour which produces perspective and humility.

vv. 6-7 God is great. His great goodness will be remembered and famous and they shall sing aloud of His righteousness.

vv. 8-12 The LORD’s nature is here proclaimed as was done out of the burning bush. (Ex. 33:19) He is: Gracious, merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, good to all, extending compassion over all that He has made. God gives correction and He has a plan and timing for all that He has made. The result of this is that all His works shall be praised; give thanks and bless the LORD, and talk of His glory and kingdom and tell of his power, making it known to all the sons to come the gospel of the kingdom of God (Ezra 7:25; Eph. 1:9-11).

v. 13 His kingdom has no end and his dominion continue throughout all generations. God is alone God and His kingdom is everlasting. All His words are faithful (Tit. 1:2; Isa. 45:23; 46:10; 55:1; Mat. 24:35; Jn. 6:63).

vv. 14-20 God holds up all who are falling and raises up the lowly. He is not a respecter of persons. (Acts 10:34). All eyes are on Him and He alone gives all provisions. Spiritually, as we look to Him, He gives to us the meat in due season as we can assimilate it. He is near to all who seek Him and call upon Him in the truth, and He fulfils their desires and hears their cries and saves them. He preserves all of those who love Him but will destroy the wicked.

v. 21 Restating the commitment of the believer that he will speak the praise of the LORD and wants all flesh to bless His holy name for ever and ever. Humility and sacrificing our lives to God by laying down our own will and way and uplifting Him (Ps. 116; Rom. 12:1).

Psalm 146

146:1 Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my soul! ²I will praise the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have being. ³Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no help. ⁴When his breath departs he returns to his earth; on that very day his plans perish. ⁵Happy is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God, ⁶who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; who keeps faith for ever; ⁷who executes justice for the oppressed; who gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets the prisoners free; ⁸the LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous. ⁹The LORD watches over the sojourners, he upholds the widow and the fatherless; but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin. ¹⁰The LORD will reign for ever, thy God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the LORD!

Intent of Psalm 146

v. 1-4 As long as the believer is alive, he will spend it in praising the LORD. Trust is not to be placed in any other, in whom is no help at all. The LORD who:

v. 5 as God, is our help.

The words for God in this verse are SHD 7945 as the prefix to SHD 410 and then the second reference is to Elohim (SHD 430).

v. 6 God made the heavens, earth, sea and all within them (Job 38:4-7); Who keeps faith forever (He is ever faithful and also that He keeps those who are the faithful forever).

v. 7 He brings about justice for the oppressed.

He feeds the hungry, and sets free those in bondages,

v. 8 Causes the blind to see (and will give us spiritual sight),

Lifts the humble and lowly,

Loves the righteous,

v. 9 Sees to our welfare in our human pilgrimage on earth while we seek deliverance in the resurrections as Elohim (Heb. 11:16). God then sends us the City of God as per 16b of the verse (see City of God (No. 180)).

God keeps and cares for the widow and fatherless (those who are alone, in grief, without family, forsaken, damaged in love).

Makes an end of the wicked,

v. 10 He Reigns forever,

He is God to Zion for all her generations. The terms for Lord are firstly 3068 Yahovah and the second as SHD 3050. God is Elohim to 147:12 with 150:1 as El (SHD 410) and lord there is Yahh as SHD 3050

The works of God in this Psalm are a beginning that continues to be expounded upon and declared in the following 4 Psalms as well.

Psalm 147

147:1 Praise the LORD! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for he is gracious, and a song of praise is seemly. ²The LORD builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the outcasts of Israel. ³He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds. ⁴He determines the number of the stars, he gives to all of them their names. ⁵Great is our LORD, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure. ⁶The LORD lifts up the downtrodden, he casts the wicked to the ground. ⁷Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; make melody to our God upon the lyre! ⁸He covers the heavens with clouds, he prepares rain for the earth, he makes grass grow upon the hills. ⁹He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens which cry. ¹⁰His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the legs of a man; ¹¹but the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love. ¹²Praise the LORD, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion! ¹³For he strengthens the bars of your gates; he blesses your sons within you. ¹⁴He makes peace in your borders; he fills you with the finest of the wheat. ¹⁵He sends forth his command to the earth; his word runs swiftly. ¹⁶He gives snow like wool; he scatters hoarfrost like ashes. ¹⁷He casts forth his ice like morsels; who can stand before his cold? ¹⁸He sends forth his word, and melts them; he makes his wind blow, and the waters flow. ¹⁹He declares his word to Jacob, his statutes and ordinances to Israel. ²⁰He has not dealt thus with any other nation; they do not know his ordinances. Praise the LORD!

Intent of Psalm 147

A continuation of the nature, works and virtues of God, who has not dealt like this with any other nation as He has with Israel.

v. 1 Reference to Psalm 65, the song for the Sabbath Day.

v. 2 The many ways that God gives grace – fulfilling of His promises to build up Jerusalem and gather the outcasts, binding up the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds. There is nothing that He cannot restore, refresh, revive, rebuild or resurrect.

vv. 4-5 By His perfect understanding, he determines the numbers of the stars and thereby also determines His calendar which He upholds throughout the history of man, to give us seasons, times and signs as a reminder of His continual care-taking and thought toward us. There is no measure to which God is judged.

v. 6 He picks up those trodden down giving them glory. The poor, the needy, He lifts up because of His steadfast love. He casts the wicked to the ground from which they came. Such a high and great God, yet He reaches down to the lowliest and cares and saves them.

v. 7 Command to sing and make melody upon the lyre to God in thanks to Him.

v. 8-9 The tender care and provision that God continually supplies.

vv. 10-11 He delights in the humble and those who give themselves over to Him because they fear Him and put all their hope in His steadfast love.

vv. 12-19 Jerusalem and Zion; those to whom He made great and lasting promises are to praise Him. He strengthens their defences and their sons within them (their children are within these defences, they are sanctified in that protection and are the holy seed), gives peace in those borders (Phil. 4:6-7), and fills them all with the finest of grain. When He sends forth His command, it does not delay but runs swiftly (Psa. 33:9). He has command of all the storehouses in the heavens of snow, ice, hail, rain, etc. as told in Job.

vv. 19-20 He has given a special blessing to Jacob, knowledge and understanding to keep His law and ordinances. No other nation has been dealt with like this. Praise the LORD!

Psalm 148

148:1 Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from the heavens, praise him in the heights! ²Praise him, all his angels, praise him, all his host! ³Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars! ⁴Praise him, you highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens! ⁵Let them praise the name of the LORD! For he commanded and they were created. ⁶And he established them for ever and ever; he fixed their bounds which cannot be passed. ⁷Praise the LORD from the earth, you sea monsters and all deeps, ⁸fire and hail, snow and frost, stormy wind fulfilling his command! ⁹Mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars! ¹⁰Beasts and all cattle, creeping things and flying birds! ¹¹Kings of the earth and all peoples, princes and all rulers of the earth! ¹²Young men and maidens together, old men and children! ¹³Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted; his glory is above earth and heaven. ¹⁴He has raised up a horn for his people, praise for all his saints, for the people of Israel who are near to him. Praise the LORD!

Intent of Psalm 148

An added call in this Psalm of praise to the spiritual creation and all aspects of the physical creation as well. All created things roused in this Psalm to praise the LORD and praise for all His saints. He wants us to ultimately share in His glory.

vv. 1-4 The various aspects of the spiritual heavenly creation are named here, and it is stated that they were created by God, they had a beginning and He initiated that beginning.

vv. 5-6 They are commanded to praise the LORD for by His command they even exist. He established them for ever and the bounds He fixed for them cannot be passed (Jude 1:6).

vv. 7-12 The various and even little explored aspects of the physical creation are now named along with all powers and ranks of rulers, men, women and children. Let them all praise the name of the LORD.

v. 13 His name only is to be exalted. Only one God.

v. 14 He has raised up a horn for his people. This shows that even in Psalm 148 the one who became Jesus Christ, is not to be exulted but only God.

Psalm 149

149:1 Praise the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song, his praise in the assembly of the faithful! ²Let Israel be glad in his Maker, let the sons of Zion rejoice in their King! ³Let them praise his name with dancing, making melody to him with timbrel and lyre! ⁴For the LORD takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with victory. ⁵Let the faithful exult in glory; let them sing for joy on their couches. ⁶Let the high praises of God be in their throats and two-edged swords in their hands, ⁷to wreak vengeance on the nations and chastisement on the peoples, ⁸to bind their kings with chains and their nobles with fetters of iron, ⁹to execute on them the judgment written! This is glory for all his faithful ones. Praise the LORD!

Intent of Psalm 149

Another in the series of 5 Psalms of praise to the LORD. This Psalm reminds us that this is glory for all his faithful ones; to highly praise God and participate in God’s vengeance and bind and judge the earth and the angels. (Rev. 5:8-14; 14:3).

v. 1 Command to praise the LORD and sing a new song as the 24 elders did (Rev. 5:9) and as the 144,000 sing a new song before the throne (Rev. 14:3). We are told to praise Him in the assembly of the faithful- we seek out and assemble together in obedience to God as the faithful not forsaking the assembling of themselves together (Heb. 10:23-25).

v. 2 Israel is spiritual and physical and Zion is the City of God, let them rejoice in their maker. He has formed us before we existed and by His wisdom. He is our maker and is the King.

vv.3-4 The LORD takes pleasure in His people, who are commanded to use dancing, making melody and playing of instruments in our praise to Him. He dresses the humble in a garment of victory! (1Cor. 15:54; Rev. 12:11).

vv. 5-9 His people will exult in His glory and rest in the LORD. The armies of the LORD (Rev. 19:19) battle against the systems of evil in the day of the LORD. They exult in the Lord on their couches, with his high praise in their throats and with sharp two-edged sword, the Word of God. The elect are marked by their ability to rightly divide the truth, and to judge the people and judge the demons. They do not battle exulting in any other power and in battle, they go out with songs of praise to God (2Chr 20).

Psalm 150

150:1 Praise the LORD! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty firmament! ²Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his exceeding greatness! ³Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! ⁴Praise him with timbrel and dance; praise him with strings and pipe! ⁵Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals! ⁶Let everything that breathes praise the LORD! Praise the LORD!

Intent of Psalm 150

It is fitting to end the Psalms with a Psalm of Praise to the LORD in His sanctuary – the spiritual edifice the City of God, sons of heaven and sons of earth, co-heirs of His house, Elohim. He is Ha-Elohim and will be all in all (1Cor. 15:28). All will praise the LORD and all His purpose will be accomplished (Isa. 43:13; Prov. 19:21; Eccl. 3:1; Isa. 14:27; 46:10; Eph. 1:1).

v. 1 God desires and commands our voices (our glory that He gave to us) to be used in the sanctuary and in His mighty firmament; in His presence now and in the future. Singing to God in worship is not optional.

v. 2 God wants to be praised for His mighty deeds which He wrought on the earth and throughout the ages for His purpose: according to His exceeding greatness.

vv. 3-4 Praise Him with timbrel and dance, with the lute and the harp, strings and pipe. These instruments mentioned are very like the sound of the voice that He put within each person and in everything which He created that has breath, the vocal chords. This is the giving of our will, seated in the voice box, over to declaring His mighty works. Unlike Lucifer whose pipes were a source of pride to him, and he used his tongue (his will) to become the father of lies and beguiling (Ezek 28).

vv. 5-6 Clashing loud cymbals not as in 1Cor. 13. Rather, these cymbals are proclaiming that the voice (will) of God is as many thunders, and commands attention.

Let all that breathes praise the LORD. There will be nothing wasted, nothing lost. All will praise Him; it is what He has purposed.

From the LXX

Psalm 151

This Psalm is a genuine psalm of David, though supernumerary, composed when he fought in single combat with Goliad.

I was small among my brethren, and youngest in my father's house: I tended my father's sheep.²My hands formed a musical instrument, and my fingers tuned a psaltery. ³And who shall tell my Lord? the Lord himself, he himself hears. ⁴He sent forth his angel, and took me from my father's sheep, and he anointed me with the oil of his anointing. ⁵My brothers were handsome and tall; but the Lord did not take pleasure in them. ⁶I went forth to meet the Philistine; and he cursed me by his idols. ⁷But I drew his own sword, and beheaded him, and removed reproach from the children of Israel. (Brenton’s Translation).

Intent of Psalm 151

The intent of this psalm is to show that God does not go by outward appearances but looks at the heart and the inner workings of a person. God is not a respecter of persons nor of appearances or circumstance.

Appendix: Summary of the Psalms

In the opening Summary to Book 5 we explained the purpose of the Psalms and their general coverage.

Book 1 The Genesis Book concerned the Creation of Man. Book 2 The Exodus Book concerned the Redemption of Israel and Mankind. Book 3 The Leviticus Book concerned the Sanctuary and the Place of Mankind as Elohim among the sons of God as the elohim centred on Psalm 82 and the associated psalms of Asaph and Korah, where man was to take his place as sons of God as Elohim (see Elect as Elohim (No. 001)). In all three works there is progressive development of the Theology of the Bible texts and the development of mankind in the Plan of Salvation (No. 001A).

From Book 4 The Numbers Book we see the Book begin with the Prayer of Moses (Psa. 90). This begins the restoration of man to the shelter of the Most High and the shadow of the Almighty and His works (Pss. 91; 92). The decrees of the Lord are sure (Psa. 93). The God of vengeance teaches the world and chastises them according to His Laws (Psa. 94). The world is called to worship him and to sing New Songs in worship to Him. The Lord reigns, above all elohim, and the earth is to rejoice for the Lord is to come to judge the earth with equity (Pss. 95; 96; 97; 98). He sits enthroned among the cherubim and is to rule in Zion (Pss. 99; 100).

David prays for affliction and the world waits on God and the Messiah (Pss. 101, 102, 103). In all these texts the Laws of God are reinforced and the obedience of man to God and His laws is paramount for Salvation. The stability of the earth and its foundations rests on the power and faithfulness of God (Psa. 104). The last two psalms (Pss. 105 and 106) are psalms of praise for the ongoing glory of God and an acknowledgment of the sins of Israel and the salvation in the Exodus under the Messiah, as the Angel of the Presence. See Acts 7:30-53 (F044ii) 1Cor. 10:1-4 (F046ii).

Book 5 The Deuteronomy Book goes on to Pss. 107 and then Psalms of David which speak of the redemption of the servants of the lord of the nations all over the world. From Pss 108-110 we see the texts develop to the elevation of Messiah in Psalm 110 to the right hand of the Throne of God. Here Christ is made a priest of the order of Melchisedek and, as we see from Hebrews Ch. 8 (F058), High Priest of that order, which runs the Temple and the administration of the world (Melchisedek (No. 128)). The whole world will then, as we see, be ruled according to the structure of the Nature of God, and the laws that emanate from that nature.

The text then goes on to develop the Glory of God and then from Psalms 113-118 we see the Hallel psalms listed, which are used as psalms of worship on the Seven Holy Days of the Feasts under the Sacred Calendar (see No. 156). The penetration of the Churches of God by the Baal worshipping Sun and Mystery Cults saw the Temple calendar disregarded in what became the mainstream or “orthodox” system based on the worship of the Triune God. That system led to the Quartodeciman Disputes (No. 277) and The Unitarian Trinitarian Wars (No. 268). So also, Judaism became completely corrupted by the Babylonian system and was dispersed into the nations. In 358 CE Judaism developed a false calendar under R. Hillel II based on the Babylonian system and the postponements based on the Oral traditions. The Hillel Calendar and the Babylonian Intercalation... (No. 195C) was further developed in the Twelfth century under Maimonides. In the two millennia since the formation of the church under Messiah and the apostles it was never kept by the Churches of God until the Twentieth Century when it was introduced to the Sardis system by Herbert Armstrong and Andrew Dugger of the COG (SD). The church centred on Rome in the Second Century adopted the pagan calendar of the Romans under the Sun and Mystery Cults of Attis in the west and Adonis and Osiris in Greece and Africa and Asia Minor in the east. See also Origins of Christmas and Easter (No. 235).

The formation of what became the Sardis and Laodicean systems in the west and especially from North America saw the worst phase of the Churches of God develop (see Rev. ch. 3). They were penetrated by unconverted Ditheists (No. 076B), Binitarians and Trinitarians (No. 076) and people who denied the Pre-existence of Christ (No. 243) from exposure to Freemasonry and the Luciferian Cults (see also Radical Unitarianism and Binitarianism (No. 076C)). Because of this continued exposure to paganism and false doctrines and the suppression of the Churches of God over a long period there was never a proper explanation of the Psalms ever written either in Judaism or in Binitarian/Trinitarian Christianity. That was because of the Theology. The Psalms struck at the very heart of the pagan doctrines and falsehoods of Babylon, Greece and Rome and Asia Minor. In the Twentieth Century when the Church of God finally had the power to publish, they had lapsed into Ditheism and refused to explain them because of their total false doctrine of a Ditheist and Binitarian structure. They simply did not know enough and invented false doctrines such as the OT did not explain God the Father and Christ was the God of the OT and other such error. For that reason, the Churches of God were scattered to the four winds in 1994 and the final system prophesied by God through Jeremiah (Jer. 4:15-27) and in the text of Revelation (Rev. 3:7-12) was formed. The final explanation of the Theology of the Bible text and the coming of the Messiah was explained from that time onwards; hence this commentary. The Messiah and the Host will be with us soon to clean this corrupt world up and bring in the millennial reign of the Messiah under God's Calendar (No. 156); and to stamp out the antinomianism of the Sun and Mystery Cults completely and enforce the Sabbaths and the New Moons on pain of death (Isa. 66:23-24) and stamp out all false religion (see End of False Religion (No. 141F). It will be as it was at Sinai when Christ had Moses sentence the Sabbath Breakers to be stoned to death.

The structure of the Biblical texts and the psalms, and that process, is further explained by the use of the Names of God (No. 116) as we see outlined in the texts and in the details of the Summary of the Psalms in the appendix below. It will be clear to any rational person not brainwashed by religious propaganda that the very names of God used in the psalms and elsewhere in the Bible, show the roles of the One True God and Jesus Christ whom He sent are clearly listed in the original texts. (See also The Name of God in Islam (No. 054).) To suggest they are not is an uninspired, uneducated, fabrication.

Names of God and Strong’s numbering

The first name of God in Bk. 5 is El (SHD 410) as the Almighty (107:11) and then the names are Elohim (SHD 430) from Pss. 108 to 109:1.

At 109:21 we see the name of the Most High appears as Yahovih (SHD 3069) which is only ever read as Elohim by rabbinical Jews, so as not to confuse it with the Yahovah of Israel which is the subordinate God of Israel (of Psa. 45) (see below).

The names then resume as Elohim (SHD 430 except for the word El (SHD 410) at Pss. 118:27, 28; 136:26; 139:17, 23; 140:6.

At 139:19 we see Eloah listed as the singular name of God which applies only to the Father as the Most High God and no other being in the Host.

In Psalm 141:8 we see Yahovih (SHD 3069) appear again for the second time in Book 5. These are not insignificant usages. This instance places the Most High as the refuge and defence of the people (see Psa. 141:8 below). The names continue as SHD 430 Elohim but for a few instances of El (SHD 410) at Pss. 146:5; 149:6; 150:1 in the MT. These titles are to distinguish between the god or elohim of Israel that is Messiah and the Most High God who is the God of Messiah, and the entire Host (see Pss. 45; 110 Rev. Chs 4 and 5 F066).

3050 Yahh yaw contraction for 3068, and meaning the same; Jah, the sacred name:--Jah, the Lord, most vehement. Comp. names in "-iah," "- jah."

3068 Yhovah yeh-ho-vaw' from 1961; (the) self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God:--Jehovah, the Lord. Comp. 3050, 3069.

3069 Yhovih yeh-ho-vee' a variation of 3068 (used after 136, and pronounced by Jews as 430, in order to prevent the repetition of the same sound, since they elsewhere pronounce 3068 as 136):--God.

113 'adown aw-done' or (shortened) adon {aw-done'}; from an unused root (meaning to rule); sovereign, i.e. controller (human or divine):-- lord, master, owner. Comp. also names beginning with "Adoni-".

410 'el ale shortened from 352; strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the Almighty (but used also of any deity):--God (god), X goodly, X great, idol, might(-y one), power, strong. Comp. names in "-el."

430 'elohiym el-o-heem' plural of 433; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme God; occasionally applied by way of deference to magistrates; and sometimes as a superlative:--angels, X exceeding, God (gods)(-dess, -ly), X (very) great, judges, X mighty.

433 'elowahh el-o'-ah; rarely (shortened) >eloahh {el-o'-ah probably prolonged (emphat.) from 410; a deity or the Deity:--God, god. See 430.

7945 shel shel for the rel. 834; used with prepositional prefix, and often followed by some pronominal affix; on account of, whatsoever, whichsoever:--cause, sake.

136 'Adonay ad-o-noy' an emphatic form of 113; the Lord (used as a proper name of God only):--(my) Lord.

46 'abiyr aw-beer' from 82; mighty (spoken of God):--mighty (one).

4480 min min or minniy {min-nee'}; or minney (constructive plural) {min-nay'}; (Isaiah 30:11); for 4482; properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses (as follows):--above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, X neither, X nor, (out) of, over, since, X then, through, X whether, with.

What follows below are the names of God and Lord in the psalms over all five books.

The Words God and Lord in Psalms

Psa_3:2 God.H430

Psa_3:7 LORD; H3068 God:H430

Psa_4:1 GodH430

Psa_5:2 God:H430

Psa_5:4 GodH410

Psa_5:6 LORD,H3068

LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_7:1 LORD,H3068 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_7:3 LORDH3068 God, H430

Psa_7:9 GodH430

Psa_7:10 God,H430

Psa_7:11 GodH430 GodH410

Psa_9:17 God.H430

Psa_10:4 GodH430

Psa_10:11 GodH410

Psa_10:12 LORD;H3068 God,H410

Psa_10:13 GodH430

Psa_13:3 LORDH3068 God:H430

Psa_14:1 God.H430

Psa_14:2 LORDH3068 God.H430

Psa_16:1 God:H410

Psa_17:6 God:H410

Psa_18:2 LORDH3068 God,

Psa_18:6 LORD,H3068 God:H430

Psa_18:21 LORD,H3068 God.H4480 H430

Psa_18:28 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_18:29 GodH430

Psa_18:30 LORDH3068 God,H410

Psa_18:31 LORDH3068 GodH433 God,H430

Psa_18:32 GodH410

Psa_18:46 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_18:47 GodH410

Psa_19:1 God;H410

Psa_20:1 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_20:5 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_20:7 LORDH3068 God.H430

Psa_22:1 God,H410 God,H410

Psa_22:2 God,H430

Psa_22:10 GodH410

Psa_24:5 LORD,H3068 GodH4480 H430

Psa_25:2 God,H430 I

Psa_25:5 GodH430

Psa_25:22 God,H430

Psa_27:9 GodH430

Psa_29:3 LORDH3068 LORDH3068 GodH410

Psa_30:2 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_30:12 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_31:5 LORDH3068 GodH410

Psa_31:14 LORD: God.H430

Psa_33:12 LORD;H3068 GodH430

Psa_35:23 Lord.H136 GodH430

Psa_35:24 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_36:1 LORD.H3068 GodH430

Psa_36:7 God!H430

Psa_37:31 GodH430

Psa_38:15 LORD,H3068 LordH136 God.H430

Psa_38:21 LORD:H3068 God,H430

Psa_40:3 LORD.H3068 God:H430

Psa_40:5 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_40:8 God:H430

Psa_40:17 LordH136 God.H430

Psa_41:13 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_42:1 God.H430

Psa_42:2 God,H430 God:H410

Psa_42:3 God?H430

Psa_42:4 God,H430

Psa_42:5 God:H430

Psa_42:6 God,H430

Psa_42:8 LORDH3068 GodH410

Psa_42:9 GodH410

Psa_42:10 God?H430

Psa_42:11 God:H430 God.H430

Psa_43: God,H430

Psa_43:2 GodH430

Psa_43:4 God,H430 GodH410

Psa_43:5 God:H430 God.H430

Psa_44:1 God,H430

Psa_44:4 God:H430

Psa_44:8 GodH430

Psa_44:20 God,H430 strange god;H410

Psa_44:21 GodH430

Psa_45:2 GodH430

Psa_45:6 God,H430

Psa_45:7 God,H430 God,H430

Psa_46:1 GodH430

Psa_46:4 God,H430

Psa_46:5 GodH430 GodH430

Psa_46:7 LORDH3068 of hosts GodH430

Psa_46:10 God:H430

Psa_46:11 LORDH3068 GodH430 of Jacob

Psa_47:1 GodH430

Psa_47:5 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_47:6 God,H430

Psa_47:7 GodH430

Psa_47:8 LORD,H3068 God,H430

Psa_48:1 LORD,H3068 God,H430

Psa_48:3 GodH430

Psa_48:8 LORDH3068 of hosts, God:H430 GodH430

Psa_48:9 God,H430

Psa_48:10 God,

Psa_48:14 GodH430 GodH430

Psa_49:7 GodH430

Psa 49:15 GodH430

Psa_50:1 LORD,H3068 mightyH410 God,H430

Psa_50:2 GodH430

Psa_50:3 GodH430.

Psa_50:6 GodH430

Psa_50:7 God,H430 God.H430

Psa_50:14 GodH430

Psa_50:16 GodH430

Psa_50:22 God,H433

Psa_50:23 God.H430

Psa_51:1 God,H430

Psa_51:10 God;H430

Psa_51:14 God,H430 GodH430

Psa_51:17 GodH430 God,H430

Psa_52:1 GodH410

Psa_52:5 GodH410

Psa_52: GodH430

Psa_52:8 God:H430 GodH430

Psa_53:1 God.H430

Psa_53:2 GodH430 God.H430

Psa_53:4 God.H430

Psa_53:5 GodH430 GodH430

Psa_53:6 GodH430

Psa_54:1 God,H430

Psa_54:2 God;H430

Psa_54:3 GodH430

Psa_54:4 LordH136 GodH430

Psa_55:1 God;H430

Psa_55:14 GodH430

Psa_55:16 LORDH3068 God;H430

Psa_55:19 GodH410 God.H430

Psa_55:23 God,H430

Psa_56:1 God:H430

Psa_56:4 GodH430 GodH430

Psa_56:7 God.H430

Psa_56:9 GodH430

Psa_56:10 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_56:11 GodH430

Psa_56:12 God:H430

Psa_56:13 GodH430

Psa_57:1 God,H430

Psa_57:2 GodH430 most high; GodH410

Psa_57:3 GodH430

Psa_57:5 God,H430

Psa_57:7 God,H430

Psa_57:11 God,H430

Psa_58:6 LORD.H3068 God,

Psa_58:11 GodH430

Psa_59:1 God:H430

Psa_59:5 LORDH3068 GodH430 of hosts,

Psa_59:9 GodH430

Psa_59:10 GodH430 GodH430

Psa_59:13 GodH430

Psa_59:17 GodH430 GodH430

Psa_60:1 God,H430

Psa_60:6 GodH430

Psa_60:10 God,H430 God,H430

Psa_60:12 GodH430

Psa_61:1 God;H430

Psa_61:5 God,H430

Psa_61:7 GodH430.

Psa_62:1 God:H430

Psa_62:5 God;H430

Psa_62:7 GodH430 God.H430

Psa_62:8 GodH430

Psa_62:11 GodH430 God.H430

Psa_63:1 God,H430 God;H410

Psa_63:11 God;H430

Psa_64:1 God,H430

Psa_64:7 GodH430

Psa_64:9 God;H430

Psa_65:1 God,H430

Psa_65:5 GodH430

Psa_65:9 God,H430

Psa_66:1 God,H430

Psa 66:3 God,H430

Psa_66:5 God:H430

Psa_66:8 God,H430

Psa_66:10 God,H430

Psa_66:16 God,H430

Psa_66:19 GodH430

Psa_66:20 God,H430

Psa_67:1 GodH430

Psa_67:3 God;H430

Psa_67: God;H430

Psa_67:6 God,H430 God,H430

Psa_67:7 GodH430

Psa_68:1 GodH430

Psa_68:2 God.H430

Psa_68:3 God:H430

Psa_68:4 God,H430 JAH,H3050

Psa_68:5 GodH430

Psa_68:6 GodH430

Psa_68:7 God,H430

Psa_68:8 God:H430 God,H430 GodH430

Psa_68:9 God,H430

Psa_68:10 God,H430

Psa_68:15 GodH430

Psa_68:16 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_68:17 LordH136 GodH430

Psa_68:18 LORDH3050 GodH430

Psa_68:19 Lord,H136 GodH410

Psa_68:20 LordH136 GodH410 GodH410 GODH3069

Psa_68:21 GodH430

Psa_68:24 God;H430 God,H410

Psa_68:26 Lord,H3068 GodH430

Psa_68:28 GodH430 God,H430

Psa_68:31 God.H430

Psa_68:32 Lord;H136 God,H430

Psa_68:34 God:H430

Psa_68:35 God,H430 GodH410 God.H430

Psa_69:1 God;H430

Psa_69:3 God.H430

Psa_69:5 God,H430

Psa_69:6 LordH136 GODH3069 hosts, GodH430

Psa_69:13 LORD,H3068 God,H430

Psa_69:29 God,

Psa_69:30 GodH430

Psa_69:32 God.H430

Psa_69:35 GodH430

Psa_70:1 LORD.H3068 God,H430

Psa_70:4 GodH430

Psa_70:5 LORD,H3068 God:H430

Psa_71:5 LordH136 GOD:H3069

Psa_71:11 GodH430

Psa_71:12 God,H430 God,H430

Psa 71:16 LordH136 GOD:H3069

Psa_71:17 God,H430

Psa 71:19 God,H430 God,H430

Psa_71:22 God:H430

Psa_72:1 God,H430

Psa_72:18 LORDH3068 God,H430 the GodH430

Psa_73:28 LordH136 GOD,H3069 God:H430

Psa_73:1 GodH430

Psa_73:11 GodH410

Psa_73:17 God;H410

Psa_73:26 GodH430

Psa_73:28 God:H430 GOD,H3069

Psa_74:1 God,H430

Psa_74:8 GodH410

Psa_74:10 God,H430

Psa_74:12 GodH430

Psa_74:22 God,H430

Psa_75:1 God,H430

Psa_75:7 GodH430

Psa_75:9 GodH430

Psa_76:1 GodH430

Psa_76:6 GodH430

Psa_76:9 GodH430

Psa_76:11 LORDH3068 God:H430

Psa_77:1 GodH430 GodH430

Psa_77:3 God,

Psa_77:9 GodH410

Psa_77:13 God,H430 GodH410 God?H430

Psa_77:14 GodH410

Psa_77:16 God,H430

Psa_78:7 God,H430 God,H410

Psa_78:8 God.H410

Psa_78:10 God,H430

Psa_78:18 GodH410

Psa_78:19 God;H430 GodH410

Psa_78:22 God,H430

Psa_78:31 GodH430

Psa_78:34 God.H410

Psa_78:35 GodH430 GodH410

Psa_78:41 God,H410

Psa_78:56 God,H430

Psa_78:59 GodH430

Psa_79:1 God,H430

Psa_79:9 GodH430

Psa_79:10 God?H430

Psa_80:3 God,H430

Psa_80:4 LORDH3068 GodH430 of hosts,

Psa_80:7 GodH430 of hosts,

Psa_80:14 GodH430 of hosts:

Psa_80:19 LORDH3068 GodH430 of hosts,

Psa_81:1 GodH430 GodH430

Psa_81:4 GodH430

Psa_81:9 godH410 god.H410

Psa_81:10 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_82:1 GodH430 gods.H430

Psa_82:8 God,H430

Psa_83:1 God:H430 God.H410

Psa_83:12 GodH430

Psa_83:13 God,H430

Psa_84:2 LORD:H3068 God.H410

Psa_84:3 LORDH3068 of hosts, God.H430

Psa_84:7 God.H430

Psa_84:8 LORDH3068 GodH430 of hosts, GodH430

Psa_84:9 GodH430

Psa_84:10 God,H430

Psa_84:11 LORDH3068 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_85:4 GodH430

Psa_85:8 LORDH3068 GodH410

Psa_86:2 God,H430

Psa_86:10 GodH430

Psa_86:12 LordH136 God,H430

Psa_86:14 God,H430

Psa_86:15 Lord,H136 GodH410

Psa_87:3 God.H430

Psa_88:1 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_89:7 GodH410

Psa_89:8 LORDH3068 LORDH3050 GodH430

Psa_89:26 God,H410

Psa_90:1 Lord,H136 God.H430

Psa_90:2 God.H410

Psa_90:17 LORDH136 GodH430

Psa_91:2 LORD,H3068 God;H430

Psa_92:13 LORDH3068 God.H430

Psa_94:1 LORDH3068 God,H410 God,H410

Psa_94:7 LORDH3050 GodH430 of Jacob

Psa_94:22 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_94:23 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_95:3 LORDH3068 God,H410 gods.H430

Psa_95:7 God;H430

Psa_98:3 God.H430

Psa_99:5 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_99:8 LORDH3068 God:H430 GodH410

Psa_99:9 LORDH3068 LORDH3068 God,H430 GodH430

Psa_100:3 LORDH3068 God:H430

Psa_102:24 God,H410

Psa_104:1 LORD,H3068 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_104:21 God.H4480 H410

Psa_104:33 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_105:7 LORDH3068 God:H430

Psa_106:14 GodH410

Psa_106:21 GodH410

Psa_106:47 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_106:48 LORDH3068 LORD.H3050 GodH430

Psa_107:11 God,H410

Psa_108:1 God,H430

Psa_108:5 God,H430

Psa_108:7 GodH430

Psa_108:11 God,H430 God,H430

Psa_108:13 GodH430

Psa_109:1 GodH430

Psa_109:21 Lord, H136 GODH3069

Psa_109:26 LORDH3068 God:H430

Psa_113:5 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_114:7 Lord,H113 GodH433

Psa_115:2 God?H430

Psa_115:3 GodH430

Psa_116:5 LORD,H3068 GodH430

Psa_118:27 LORD,H3068 GodH410 is

Psa_118:28 God,H410 God,H430

Psa_119:115 God.H430

Psa_122:9 LORDH3068 GodH430

Psa_123:2 LORDH3068 God,H430

Psa_132:2 LORD,H3068 mightyH46 God of Jacob;

Psa_132:5 LORD,H3068 mightyH46 God of Jacob.

Psa_135:2 LORD,H3068 God,H430

Psa_136:2 GodH430 H430

Psa_136:26 GodH410

Psa_139:17 God!H410

Psa_139:19 God:H433

Psa_139:23 God,H410

Psa_140:6 LORD,H3068 LORD.H3068 God:H410

Psa_140:7 Lord,H136 GODH3069

Psa_141:8 Lord:H136 GODH3069

Psa_143:10 God:H430

Psa_144:9 God:H430

Psa_144:15 LORD.H7945 H3068 GodH430

Psa_145:1 God,H430

Psa_146:2 LORD:H3068 GodH430

Psa_146:5 LORDH3068 GodH7945 H410 God:H430

Psa_146:10 LORDH3068 LORD.H3050 God,H430

Psa_147:1 LORD:H3050 God;H430

Psa_147:7 LORDH3068 God:H430

Psa_147:12 LORD,H3068 God,H430

Psa_150:1 LORD.H3050 GodH410

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 120

Verse 1

Title. A Song. Hebrew. shir. See App-65: von Psalm 120iz. one of the Songs promised by Hezekiah in Isaiah 38:20.

degrees = the degrees, or steps. Hebrew. hamma"aloth (with Art.): i.e. the "degrees" mentioned six times in 2 Kings 20:8-11, and five times in Isaiah 38:8 (Hebrew) No other "degrees" known to Scripture which are connected with the shadow of the sun. For the origin, authorship, examination, and Structure, see App-67, and note on p. 827.

distress. The first Psalm of each of the five groups speaks of DISTRESS the second of TRUST the third of BLESSING AND PEACE IN ZION. The distress, here, refers to Sennacherib"s siege of Jerusalem (2 Kings 19:3. Isaiah 37:3).

cried. See 2 Kings 19:3, 2 Kings 19:4, 2 Kings 19:14-19. 2 Chronicles 32:20. Isaiah 37:15-20; Isaiah 38:2, Isaiah 38:3. See App-67.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

heard = answered.

Verse 2

Deliver = Pluck me. Hebrew. nazal. Same word as in Psalms 119:170. The reference is to 2 Kings 18:30, 2 Kings 18:32.

my soul = me. Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

lips. Hebrew = lip: i.e. Rab-shakeh"s. The reference is to 2 Kings 18:19-35; 2 Kings 19:8-13. 2 Chronicles 32:10-19. Isaiah 36:4-20; Isaiah 37:8-13. See App-67.

tongue. Figure of speech Epistrophe (App-6), with "tongue", Psalms 120:3.

Verse 3

done = heaped upon: i.e. added to. Comp. 1 Samuel 3:17; 1 Samuel 20:13, &c.

Verse 4

mighty = Mighty [One].

Verse 5

Mesech . . . Kedar. Used typically of cruel and merciless peoples; as we use the terms Vandals, Goths, Philistines.

Verse 6

him. Some codices, with Septuagint, Syriac, and Vulgate, read "them".

Verse 7

I = I [even I]; or, I [am all] peace (emphatic).

speak = speak [of peace]. See note on Psalms 109:4.

they are for war. The reference is to 2 Kings 18:19. 2 Chronicles 32:2. Isaiah 36:5.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 121

Verse 1

Title. A Song. Hebrew. shir. See App-65.

of degrees = for, or relating to the degrees. Only here thus. Hebrew. lamma"aloth. See note on Title of 120.

hills = mountains. Add a full stop.

From whence, &c? Punctuate this line as a question. Comp. Jeremiah 3:23.

cometh = is to come.

Verse 2

My help. Figure of speech, Anadiplosis, repeated from end of Psalms 121:1.

the LORD = Jehovah (App-4.), not the hills.

Which made heaven and earth. The reference is to the burden of Hezekiah"s prayer (2 Kings 19:15; Isaiah 37:16). Idols were only the work of men"s hands (2 Kings 19:18; 2 Chronicles 32:19; Isaiah 37:19). Rab-shakeh had reproached "the living God". See further references to this in Psalms 124:8; Psalms 134:3; and App-67

Verse 3

not = May He not. Hebrew "al (like Greek. me). (Subjective, and conditional).

keepeth . . . (Psalms 121:4) keepeth . . . (Psalms 121:5) keeper. Note the Figure of speech Polyptoton (App-6). Hebrew. shomreka . . . shomer . . . shomreka. Repeated in verses: Psalms 121:7-8.

Verse 4

neither. Hebrew. l"o (like Greek. ou). He will not. Absolute.

Verse 7

shall preserve thee. The repeated promise of Jehovah by Isaiah (2 Kings 19:20-34. Isaiah 37:6, Isaiah 37:7, Isaiah 37:22-25

Verse 8

thy going out, &c. Idiom for life in general. The promise was fulfilled in 2 Chronicles 32:22.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 122

Verse 1

Title. A Song. Hebrew. shir. See note on Title of Psalms 120:1, and App-65.

of degrees = of the degrees (with article), as on Title of Psalms 120:1. See App-67, and note on p. 827.

of David = by David. A Psalm which Hezekiah found ready to his hand. Some codices, with Aram, and Syriac, omit "of David".

the house of the LORD. Hebrew. the house of Jehovah (App-4). This was Hezekiah"s constant care, desire, and thought. It filled his heart. He began his reign by "opening its doors" and cleansing it. See 2 Chronicles 29-31, where it is mentioned seventeen times. He spread Sennacherib"s letter before Jehovah there (Isaiah 37:14). In his mortal sickness his prayer and its answer related to it (2 Kings 20:5). The "sign" he asked related to it (2 Kings 20:8. Isaiah 38:22). His songs were to be sung there (Isaiah 38:20). See App-67.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

Verse 2

shall stand = have stood [and shall still stand. ] The reference is to the Passover, which had been kept for "all Israel". See App-67.

Jerusalem. Note the Figure of speech Anadiplosis (App-6), the word being repeated at the beginning of the next verse.

compact = coupled together (as by a bridge), as Moriah was joined with Zion by the Millo. See note on 1 Kings 9:15; 2 Kings 12:20, and App-68.

Verse 4

go up. See App-68"Zion".

THE LORD. Hebrew Jah. App-4.

testimony: the Ark of Jehovah.

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

Verse 5

thrones. Plural of Majesty = the great Throne.

Verse 6

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Figure of speech Paronomasia (App-6), sha"alu shelom yerushalam yishlayu. See App-67.

Verse 7

Peace be within. Figure of speech Epanadiplosis (App-6), uniting Psalms 122:7 and Psalms 122:8 by beginning and ending with the same words.

Verse 8

say = speak [saying],

Verse 9

God. Hebrew. Elohim. App-4.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 123

Verse 1

Title. A Song, &c. Same as Psalms 120:1.

dwellest in the heavens. The reference is to 2 Kings 19:16 and Isaiah 37:16.

Verse 2

Behold. Figure of speech Asterismos. App-6.

as. Figure of speech Simile. App-6.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

God. Hebrew. Elohim. App-4.

have mercy = Be gracious. Figure of speech Anaphora. App-6.

Verse 3

contempt = the mockery. Comp. Psalms 119:22, referring to Rab-shakeh.

Verse 4

Our soul = we. Hebrew. nephesh (App-13).

scorning = the scoffing. The reference is to the scoffing of Sennacherib and Rab-shakeh (2 Kings 18:19-35; 2 Kings 19:8-13. 2 Chronicles 32:10-19. Isaiah 36:4-21; Isaiah 37:8-13). App-67.

at ease. Same Hebrew as "tumult" in 2 Kings 19:28, and Isaiah 37:29.

proud = proud oppressors.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 124

Verse 1

Title. See note on Title of Psalm 120.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. See App-4.

Verse 2

men. Hebrew. "adam. App-14. (Sing, refers to Sennacherib).

they. The plural, referring to Sennacherib"s hosts; likened to a stream and waters in verses: Psalms 124:4, Psalms 124:5. See note on Psalms 46:3.

Verse 3

quick = alive.

Verse 4

stream = torrent, or flood. Hebrew. nahal. See App-67.

our soul = us. Hebrew. nephesh. App-13. Note the Figure of speech Epistrophe (App-6) in the repetition at end of Psalms 124:5.

Verse 7

as a bird. The reference is to the words of Sennacherib on his cylinder, where he mentions Hezekiah by name, whom he had got "as a bird in a cage". See App-67.

Verse 8

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

Who made heaven and earth. See App-67and note on Psalms 121:2 with Psalms 134:3.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 125

Verse 1

Title. Same as Psalm 120. See App-67.

trust = confide. Hebrew. batah. App-69.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4. Shall be as mount Zion. Some codices, with one early printed edition and Syriac, read "are in Mount Zion". App-68. for ever. Note the Figure of speech. Epistrophe (App-6), the words being repeated at the end of the next line.

Verse 3

For = Surely.

rod, or cudgel.

the wicked = the wicked (or lawless) one. Hebrew. rasha, App-44. Here the reference is to Sennacherib (Isaiah 30:31), but it looks forward to 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 2 Thessalonians 2:4.

rest upon = continue over,

lot = heritage (as allotted).

righteous. Plural: i.e. Hezekiah and the godly in Israel.

iniquity. Hebrew "aval. App-44.

Verse 5

iniquity. Hebrew "aval. App-44.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 126

Verse 1

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

turned. the captivity = turned the fortunes. This does not refer to a captivity or captives, but to a restoration to blessing. See Job 42:10 and Ezekiel 16:53 and Ezekiel 16:56, where it is three times explained as "return to your former estate". See App-67.

Zion. See App-68.

like them that dream. The reference is to the waking in 2 Kings 19:35. Isaiah 37:36. The illustration is in Luke 24:41. Acts 12:9 (603 B.C.)

Verse 2

singing: i.e. the songs of Isaiah 38:20.

said they = was it said.

heathen = nations. The reference is to 2 Chronicles 32:22, 2 Chronicles 32:23.

The LORD hath done great things. Figure of speech Anadiplosis (App-6), because the phrase is repeated at the beginning of the next verse.

Verse 4

streams = torrents. Hebrew. "aphikim. See 2 Samuel 22:16. Supply the Ellipsis, "as the streams [are turned] in the Negeb".

in the south = in the Negeb, where, in the hill-country of Judaea the "aphikim are turned about in their beds between the rocks and in the gorges.

south. Hebrew Negeb; the hill-country of Judaea. See note on Genesis 13:1, and Deuteronomy 1:7.

Verse 5

sow in tears. The reference is to the "sign" given in Isaiah 37:30. See App-67.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 127

Verse 1

Title. A Song of degrees. Same as 120 ("the degrees"). App-67. The Structure, and the references to Hezekiah being childless (App-67. xiv), show that this is not a Psalm "made up of two smaller Psalms, having no connection with each other".

for Solomon = of or by Solomon. The central Psalm of the fifteen. Selected by Hezekiah to complete and perfect the arrangement.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

the = a.

Verse 2

For so = Thus.

beloved = beloved one (singular) Hebrew. yedid. This was Solomon"s name (Jedidiah) given by Jehovah (2 Samuel 12:25). Solomon was given because David was beloved of Jehovah. Somecodices, with Septuagint, Syriac, and Vulgate, read plural

sleep = in sleep: i.e. while they sleep: i.e. without their labour. So He gave to Solomon (1 Kings 3:5-15); to Adam (Genesis 2:21, Genesis 2:22); Abraham (Genesis 15:12, Genesis 15:13); Jacob (Genesis 28:10-15); Samuel (1 Samuel 3:3, 1 Samuel 3:4), &c.

Verse 3

Lo. Figure of speech Asterismos. App-6.

children = sons. The reference to the fact that Hezekiah was rejoicing in Isaiah"s message that he should have a son, made it a suitable Psalm for Hezekiah to select (2 Kings 20:12, 2 Kings 20:18. Isaiah 39:7).

of = from. Hence he sings Jehovah"s praise.

Verse 5

Happy is the man. Hezekiah was that man. See the Beatitudes. App-63.

man. Hebrew. geber.

They: i.e. the sons.

not be ashamed. Figure of speech Tapeinosis (App-6): quite the opposite.

speak = meet, whether for negotiation or for fighting.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 128

Verse 1

Title. A Song of degrees. Same as 120. See App-67.

Blessed is = O the happinesses of. See the Beatitudes. App-63.

feareth = revereth.

Verse 2

labour. Put by Figure of speech Metonymy (of Cause), App-6, for that which is produced by labour.

thine hands: i.e. thine own hands, in contrast with the opposite (Leviticus 26:16. Deuteronomy 28:30-33, Deuteronomy 28:39, Deuteronomy 28:40). See also Amos 5:11. Micah 6:15.

Verse 3

wife . . . fruitful. The reference is, as in Psalm 127 to the fact that Hezekiah was childless at this time and ionged for an heir. App-67.

children = sons.

Verse 4

Behold. Figure of speech Asterismos. App-6.

man = a strong man (plural) Hebrew. geber. App-14.

blessed. Not the same word as in Psalms 128:1. That is happy (Beatitudo); this is blessed (Benedictio).

Verse 5

And thou shalt see: or, That thou mayest see.

Verse 6

thou shalt see. Hezekiah did see.

peace. Because this Psalm concludes a group.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 129

Verse 1

Title. A Song of degrees. Same as 120. See App-67.

Verse 2

Many a time. Figure of speech Anaphora (App-6), being repeated from Psalms 129:1.

Yet = Nevertheless. Hebrew. gam, as in Psalms 119:24 ("also"); Ezekiel 16:28. Ecclesiastes 6:7. Not "reduplicated by mistake, and then spelled differently to make sense", as is alleged by modern criticism.

Verse 3

The plowers. No Art.

Verse 4

The LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah.

righteous = just: i.e. in His judgments.

cords: i.e. of bondage. Comp. Psalms 2:3.

the wicked = lawless ones. Hebrew. rasha". App-44.

Verse 5

Zion. See App-68.

Verse 6

as the grass = as grass. The reference in verses: Psalms 129:6, Psalms 129:7 is not to "Egyptian monuments", but to the reply of Jehovah concerning Sennacherib, which Hezekiah quotes here. Comp. 2 Kings 19:25, 2 Kings 19:26. Isaiah 37:27.

groweth up. Either unsheatheth itself into flower, or is plucked up (as Septuagint and Vulgate)

Verse 8

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 130

Verse 1

Title. A Song of degrees. Same as 120. See App-67.

depths. Symbolical of distress. Comp. Psalms 42:7; Psalms 66:12; Psalms 69:2.

Verse 2

LORD *. One of the 134 places where the Sopherim altered Jehovah to Adonai. See App-32. So also verses: Psalms 130:3; Psalms 130:6.

ears. Figure of speech Anthropopatheia. App-6.

Verse 4

But = For; or Because; corresponding with Psalms 130:7.

forgiveness = the forgiveness: viz. that which Heze-kiah gave thanks for in Isaiah 38:17.

Verse 5

soul. Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

His word: as sent to Hezekiah by Jehovah through Isaiah.

Verse 6

watch. Hebrew. shamar = to keep = observe. An astronomical word, as in Psalms 19:11. Comp. Psalms 105:45; Psalms 107:43; Psalms 119:34. Omit the italics, note the Figure of speech Epizeuxis. App-6, and render: "More than watchers for the morning [while] watching for the morning. "

Verse 7

mercy = lovingkindness, or grace.

plenteous redemption. Not only from the king of Assyria (Isa 37), but from "the king of terrors". redemption. Hebrew. padah. See notes on Exodus 13:13.

Verse 8

redeem. Same as Psalms 130:7.

iniquities. Hebrew. "avah. App-44. (Isa 38.)

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 131

Verse 1

Title. A Song of degrees. Same as Psalm 120. App-67.

of David = by David. For its place here see App-67.

LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

high = wonderful.

Verse 2

Surely = [See] whether I have not, &c.

quieted = silenced. Some codices, with Septuagint and Vulgate, read "soothed and uplifted": i.e. comforted.

myself = my soul. Hebrew. nephesh.

My soul = Myself. Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

Verse 3

Israel. Not "a liturgical addition", but used to link the three Psalms of this group together (Psalms 129:1; Psalms 130:7, Psalms 130:8; Psalms 131:3). For Israel is to find rest and peace where their kings (David, and Hezekiah) found it.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 132

Verse 1

Title. A Song of degrees. Same as 120. App-67.

LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

remember David = remember for David: i.e. remember to fulfill the promises made to him.

David. Hezekiah remembers David, and puts Jehovah in remembrance of him.

all his afflictions = all his being afflicted: all his anxious cares as to his work. The Temple was Heze-kiah"s care, as it had been David"s. Not "post-exilic". We see these anxieties from the beginning of his reign (2 Samuel 7:1, 1 Chronicles 13:3; 1 Chronicles 21:18-30; 1 Chronicles 22:1. The subjects of these last three Psalms are merged in blessing.

Verse 2

the mighty [God] of Jacob. The mighty One to Whom Jacob vowed his vow. Title occurs outside the Pentateuch, only here, and Genesis 49:24; Isaiah 1:24 (Israel); Psalms 49:26; Psalms 60:16. Note the Figure of speech Epistrophe(App-6) for emphasis in Psalms 132:5.

Verse 3

I will not come. Note the Figure of speech Periphrases (App-6) in verses: Psalms 132:4, Psalms 132:5.

tabernacle = tent. Hebrew. "ohel. App-40. Comp. Acts 7:46.

of. Genitive of Apposition = "the Tent: i.e. my house". The emphasis = my own house.

bed = couch.

Verse 5

An habitation. Plural of Majesty. Hebrew. mishkan (App-40.)

Verse 6

heard: i.e. while he was at Ephratah. David"s father was an Ephrathite (of Bethlehem-Ephratah. Comp. Genesis 35:19. David had "heard" of it as being in Shiloh.

it: i.e. the Ark. in the fields of the wood = at Jaar"s fields: i.e. Kirjath-jearim (1 Chronicles 13:5.)

Verse 7

tabernacles = the plural of Majesty. His great habitation. Hebrew. Mishkan. App-40.

footstool. Figure of speech Anthropopatheia. App-6.

Verse 8

Arise. Figure of speech Ellipsis (App-6) = [and will say] "Arise, O LORD". &c. This is what Solomon did say in 2 Chronicles 6:41, see Psalms 68:1 (and note there), according to Numbers 10:35. Psalms 132:8-10 record what David said.

the ark of Thy strength. Occurs only here and 2 Chronicles 6:41. See notes on Exodus 25:22 and 1 Chronicles 13:3.

Verse 9

saints = favoured ones.shout for joy. That is exactly what they did. See the subscription of Psalm 87 and note there on "Mahalath-Leannoth".

Verse 10

Thine anointed = i.e. David. Not "Zerubbabel", no such oath made to him.

Verse 11

hath sworn. See 2 Samuel 7:8-17.

in truth = a truth.

Of the fruit of thy body. This was what Hezekiah was concerned about; for he as yet had no son, and was in danger of death. Hence this pleading of Jehovah"s oath to David. Quoted in Acts 2:30.

Verse 12

children = sons.

My testimony. Hebrew = "this My testimony". Some codices, with Aramaean, Septuagint, and Vulgate, read "[these] my testimonies" (plural)

children = sons.

Verse 13

Zion. See App-68.

His habitation = His dwelling. Figure of speech Anthropopatheia (App-6).

Verse 15

her: i.e. Zion"s.

poor = needy ones.

Verse 17

the horn of David = a horn for David.

to bud: i.e. to bring forth: viz. a son and heir. See App-67.

lamp. According to Genesis 15:17; and note there.

Verse 18

his crown: i.e. his royal crown.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 133

Verse 1

Title. A Song of degrees. Same as 120. The three subjects of the three Psalms of this last group are merged in blessing.

of David = by David. Hezekiah found this Psalm exactly suited for his purpose. David wrote it on the experience of a similar blessing of "unity, "when "all Israel" were united "as the heart of ONE MAN "(2 Samuel 19:9, 2 Samuel 19:14). It was the same with Hezekiah. Read 2 Chronicles 30:5, 2 Chronicles 30:6, 2 Chronicles 30:11, 2 Chronicles 30:18, and note the "ONE HEART" (Psalms 133:12). See App-67.

Behold. The word of the Holy Spirit; as "yea" is of the Father; and "verily" of the Son. Note the Figure of speech Asterismos. App-6.

how good. This was manifested in 2 Chronicles 30:25, 2 Chronicles 30:26.

unity = one. The reference is to the "one man" of 2 Samuel 19:14 (David), and the "one heart" of 2 Chronicles 30:12 (Hezekiah). Hebrew. yahad (not "ehad. See note on Deuteronomy 6:4. Comp. Josephus (Antiquities ix. 13, 2).

Verse 2

ointment = oil (Exodus 30:23-25).

ran down = descended. Exodus 29:7. Leviticus 8:12; Leviticus 21:10.

went down = descended, as in Psalms 133:3.

to the skirts, &c. = to the opening of his robes (see Exodus 28:32). Hebrew = mouth (or opening).

Verse 3

As = [It is] like, as in Psalms 133:2.

And as the dew. Omit these italics.

descended. Comp. Psalms 133:2.

Zion. The dew (or copious summer night mist) was one. The same dew descended on Zion in the south as on Hermon in the north. Zion"s dew represents the tribe of Judah. Hermon"s dew represents Asher, Ephraim, Manasseh, Zebulon, Issachar (2 Chronicles 30:11, 2 Chronicles 30:18, 2 Chronicles 30:25, 2 Chronicles 30:26). The idea is not in the motion of this dew, from Hermon to Zion, but in its uniting both in its copious descent.

there. Comp. Deuteronomy 12:5, Deuteronomy 12:11, Deuteronomy 12:14, Deuteronomy 12:18, Deuteronomy 12:21. Psalms 128:5; Psalms 134:3; Psalm 133 is blessing in Zion; Psalm 132 is blessing for Zion ; Psalm 134 is blessing from Zion.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 134

Verse 1

Title. A Song of degrees. Same as 120. See App-67.

Behold. See note on Psalms 133:1.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

servants. Limited and denned in next clause, as in Psalms 135:2.

stand. The night-watchmen. The reference is to 2 Chronicles 29:11; 2 Chronicles 30:16; 2 Chronicles 31:2. There were no seats in the Tabernacle or Temple. Comp. Hebrews 10:11.

the house of the LORD. The reference is to Hezekiah"s interest in the Temple. See App-67.

Verse 3

heaven and earth. The reference is to 2 Chronicles 32:19. 2 Kings 19:15. Isaiah 37:16. See App-67.

Bless thee. The reference may be to 2 Chronicles 30:27; 2 Chronicles 31:10. This is the last of the fifteen Songs of THE Degrees, which are referred to in Isaiah 38:20. See App-67.

out of Zion. See note on "there", Psalms 133:3.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 135

Verse 1

This Psalm is probably by Hezekiah, continuing the Songs of the Degrees. Corresponds with 114 and 115. See Structure (p. 826).

Praise ye THE LORD = Hallelujah. App-4.

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. (App-4). Note the three Jehovah"s between Jah in Psalms 135:1 and Elohim in Psalms 135:2. Corresponding with the threefold blessing of Numbers 6:22-27.

Verse 2

the courts. This includes the People as well as the priests and Levites.

Verse 3

it: i.e. His name.

God. Hebrew. Elohim. App-4.

Verse 4

Jacob. Comp. Malachi 1:2. Romans 9:13. Put also by Figure of speech Metonymy (of Cause) for his posterity (App-6).

Israel. See notes on Genesis 32:28; Genesis 43:6; Genesis 45:26, Genesis 45:28.

peculiar treasure = own possession. See note on Exodus 19:5.

Verse 5

our LORD = Adonim. App-4.

gods. Hebrew. "elohim. App-4. Used here of earthly rulers (Psalms 82:6), as representing God. See note on Exodus 22:9, and Comp. Romans 13:1-7.

Verse 6

heaven, and in earth. Hezekiah"s expression. See App-67.

Verse 7

wind. Hebrew. ruach. App-9. Comp. Psalms 135:7 with Jeremiah 10:13; Jeremiah 51:16.

treasuries. Hebrew = treasures, put by Figure of speech Metonymy (of Adjunct) for treasuries (App-6), and rightly so rendered. Comp. Job 38:22.

Verse 8

smote, &c. Comp. Exodus 12:29.

man. Hebrew. "adam. App-14.

Verse 9

wonders. Comp. Ex. Psalms 7:14, and Psalms 136:15.

Verse 10

smote, &c. Comp. Numbers 21:26, Numbers 21:34-35.

Verse 11

Sihon. Comp. Numbers 21:21-34. Deuteronomy 1:4.

Og. Comp. Deuteronomy 31:4. Joshua 13:31.

all. Comp. Joshua 12:7.

Verse 12

gave their land. Comp. Joshua 12:7. An heritage. Repeated by Figure of speech Anadiplosig. App-6.

Verse 13

Thy name. Comp. Psalms 135:13 with Exodus 3:15.

Verse 14

For, &c. Comp. Deuteronomy 32:36.

judge = vindicate.

repent Himself = have compassion.

Verse 16

The idols, &c, Psalms 135:15-18. Not "borrowed" from Psalm 115, but repeated, and varied, because the object here is quite different. Psalm 115 = heathen theology; Psalm 185 = Divine theology.

heathen = nations.

Verse 17

breath. Hebrew. ruach. App-9.

Verse 18

are = will become.

trusteth = confideth. Hebrew. batah. App-69.

Verse 19

house of Israel. Includes all Israel. Comp. Psalms 115:12. See note on Exodus 16:31.

Verse 20

Levi. Not included in 115.

Verse 21

out of Zion. Shows that this Psalm is an expansion of Psalm 134.

dwelleth. Figure of Speech Anthropopatheia. App-6.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 136

Verse 1

the LORD. Hebrew Jehovah App-4. For, &c. Figures of Speech. Amoebaeon and Epistrophe. App-6.

mercy = loving-kindness, or grace.

Verse 2

O give thanks. Note the Figures of speech Coenotes and Anaphora (App-6) in verses: Psalms 136:1, Psalms 136:2, Psalms 136:3.

God of gods. Hebrew. Elohim.of the elohim. App-4.

gods. Hebrew. "elohim. See note on Psalms 135:5 and Exodus 22:9.

Verse 3

LORD of lords. Hebrew Adonim of the adonim. App-4. Comp. Deuteronomy 10:17.

Verse 5

made the heavens. Comp. Genesis 1:1.

Verse 6

above. i.e. in Genesis 1:1, and 2 Peter 3:5. By the overthrow of Genesis 1:2 the earth became a ruin, being "overflowed" (2 Peter 3:6), and covered with "the deep" (Genesis 1:2).

Verse 7

great lights., Genesis 1:14, "lightholders".

Verse 8

to rule = to have dominion. Genesis 1:16-18.

Verse 10

smote Egypt. Comp. Exodus 12:29.

Verse 11

brought out Israel. Comp. Exodus 13:17.

Verse 12

hand . . . arm. Figure of speech Anthropopatheia (App-6).

Verse 15

overthrew = shook off.

Verse 19

Sihon, &c. These two verses (verses: Psalms 136:19, Psalms 136:20) not an "interpolation". See note above.

Verse 21

their: i.e. Sihon"s and Og"s. Not a verse "clearly dropped out", which contained the noun for this pronoun. The kings named show "whose" land is referred to. An "interpolation" from which a verse has "dropped out" is a new idea in the field of imaginative criticism; and, if true, would be quite unworthy of a "commentator"s" time and trouble.

Verse 24

redeemed = rescued. Hebrew. parak = to break. Thus to rescue, by breaking the bonds. Rendered "redeem" only here (and Daniel 4:27 in the Vulgate versions: Authorized Version "break off").

enemies = adversaries.

Verse 25

food. Hebrew = bread. Put by Figure of speech Synecdoche (of Species) for all kinds of food.

flesh. Put by Figure of speech Synecdoche (of Part) for all living beings. App-6.

Verse 26

GOD. Hebrew El. App-4.

GOD of heaven. See note on 2 Chronicles 36:23.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 137

Verse 1

Babylon. The Psalm is anonymous, and probably by Hezekiah. No need to refer it to post-exilic times. The Psalm reads as though it were a reminiscence of past experience in Babylon, and a contrast with previous joys in Zion; not, as during or after the seventy years, or an experience of a then present exile in Babylon. The writer is in Jerusalem after an absence not of long duration; and is full of joy. The post-exilic captives were full of sorrow on their return (Ezra 3:12. Haggai 2:3). These exiles had obeyed Isaiah"s call (Isaiah 48:20. Comp. Psalms 43:14-21).

Verse 3

they that carried us away: i.e. the captives of Judah, as those of Israel had been by Shalmaneser and Sargon. The latter took away only 27,280 from Samaria. See note on 1 Chronicles 5:6; and App-67.

Verse 4

the LORD"S. Hebrew. Jehovah.s. App-4.

strange = foreigner"s.

Verse 5

If I forget . . . do not remember. The writer"s then present personal declaration.

Let my right hand forget. Supply "me" for the Ellipsis. Some codices, with Septuagint and Vulgate, read "let my right hand be forgotten".

Verse 7

children = sons.

Edom., Genesis 27:39, Genesis 27:40 was not fulfilled until the reign of Joram (2 Kings 8:20-23. 2 Chronicles 21:8-10 (Comp. 1 Kings 22:47). From that time they were implacable enemies.

day. Put by Figure of speech Metonymy (of Adjunct) for what happened at the time (App-6). Comp. Job 18:20. Hosea 1:11. Joel 1:15. Luke 17:22, Luke 17:26; Luke 19:42. 1 Corinthians 4:3.

Who said. The reference is to what they said, not to what they did; to the encouragement given to Sennacherib, not to the help given to Nebuchadnezzar. That is what Obadiah, a later prophet, refers to. Isaiah (Hezekiah"s contemporary) refers to the earlier words. See Isaiah 34:6. Here Edom does not go beyond words.

Rase it, rase it. Figure of speech Epizeuxis (App-6) for emphasis. This was said, not done, at that time.

Verse 8

to be destroyed. Hezekiah must have been familiar with Isaiah"s prophecies, who employs the very words of verses: Psalms 137:8, Psalms 137:9. (Isaiah 13:6, Isaiah 13:16-18; Isaiah 21:9; Isaiah 47:14, Isaiah 47:15. Comp. Nahum 3:10.)

Happy. See App-63. for the Beatitudes of the Psalms.

rewardeth. See notes above, which show that the "post-exilic" assumption involves insuperable difficulties if this Psalm is sundered from the contemporary prophecies of Isaiah (especially Psalms 13:1-14; Psalms 13:27), and from a Babylon under Assyrian rule.

Verse 9

little ones. The reference is to Isaiah 13:16-18, which belongs to a Dispensation of Law and Judgment, and is not to be interpreted of the present Dispensation of Grace.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 138

Verse 1

Title. of David = by David. Placed here by Hezekiah, to correspond with H1, H2 and H4 See p. 826.

praise Thee. Some codices, with Aramaean, Septuagint, Syriac, and Vulgate, add "O Jehovah".

heart. Septuagint adds "for Thou hast heard the words of my mouth", probably from Psalms 138:4.

gods. Hebrew. "elohim. App-4. See note on Exodus 22:8.

Verse 2

holy. See note on Exodus 3:5.

temple = house or palace. Hebrew. heykal.

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

magnified: i.e. by fulfilling it beyond all expectation.

word = sayings. Hebrew. "imrah. See App-73.

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

Verse 3

strengthenedst = encouraged, or emboldened.

my soul = myself (emphatic). Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

Verse 4

LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

they hear = they have heard.

Verse 5

in: or, of.

Verse 6

respect = regard.

Verse 7

revive = make alive, or sustain in life. See note 11 on p. 827.

hand. Some codices, with two early printed editions and Septuagint, read "hands" (plural) Figure of speech Anthropopatheia (App-6).

against. Some codices, with two early printed editions, read "Yea, because of".

mercy = lovingkindness, or grace.

works. Some codices, with Syriac, read "work" (singular).

To the chief Musician. See App-64.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 139

Verse 1

Title. A Psalm. Hebrew. mizmor. App-65.

of David = by David. The words alleged to be Chaldaisms in verses: Psalms 139:3, Psalms 139:4, Psalms 139:8, Psalms 3:20, are found in the earlier books such as Lev. 1 and 2 Samuel. There is no internal evidence of non-Davidic authorship.

LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

searched = search out as for treasures or secrets.

known = seen, so as to understand.

Verse 2

downsitting . . . uprising. Figure of speech Synecdoche (of Species), App-6, put for all movements.

thoughts inward thought. Occurs only here and in Psalms 139:17.

Verse 3

compassest = scrutinisest.

lying down = bed.

art acquainted with = well knowest, or hast inspected.

Verse 4

altogether = on every side, or, the whole of it.

Verse 5

behind and before. Figure of speech Synecdoche (of Species), App-6, put for every direction.

Verse 7

spirit. Hebrew. ruach. App-9.

presence. Hebrew = face. Figure of speech Anthropopatheia. App-6.

Verse 8

hell = Sheol. See App-35.

behold. Figure of speech Asterismos. App-6.

Verse 9

wings of the morning. See note on sub-scription of Psalm 21.

Verse 10

right hand. Figure of speech Anthropopatheia. App-6.

Verse 12

hideth not from = cannot be too dark for.

Verse 13

covered = woven me together. Comp. Job 10:8, Job 10:11.

Verse 14

fearfully and wonderfully. Hebrew = fears and wonders. Put by Figure of speech Metonymy (of Cause), App-6, for the feelings produced by the works.

my soul = myself. Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

Verse 15

substance = frame. Hebrew = bone, as in Genesis 2:21, Genesis 2:22.

curiously = skillfully. Hebrew = embroidered. Comp. Exodus 26:1; Exodus 35:35.

Verse 16

substance . . . unperfect = unfinished substance. Not the same word as in Psalms 139:15. One word in Hebrew.

unperfect. Not imperfect.

Which in continuance = the days which were ordered, or in which they should be fashioned.

Verse 17

How precious. Figure of speech Ecphonesis. App-6. See note on 1 Samuel 3:1.

thoughts = desires. See Psalms 139:2.

GOD. Hebrew El. App-4.

sum. Hebrew, plural of majesty, denoting the fullness or vastness of them.

Verse 18

more in number . . . sand. Figure of speech Paroemia. App-6.

Verse 19

Surely, &c. These six verses (19-24) are not an "interpolation". They are required to complete the Structure. See above.

Thou wilt slay, &c. This is Omnipotent work. Comp. Job 40:9-14.

the wicked = a lawless one. Hebrew. rasha", App-44.

GOD. Hebrew Eloah. App-4.

bloody = blood thirsty.

men. Hebrew. "enosh. App-14.

Verse 20

wickedly = rebelliously (pre-meditated).

Verse 21

am not I grieved with = do I not loathe.

Verse 23

thoughts = distractions or cares. Not the same word as in verses: Psalms 139:2, Psalms 139:17.

Verse 24

wicked = painful or grievous.

way. Put by Figure of speech Metonymy (of Cause), App-6, for the grief produced by it.

way everlasting. Put by Figure of speech Metonymy (of Effect), App-6, for the happiness which is the effect and end of everlasting life.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 140

Verse 1

To the chief Musician. See App-64.

Title. A Psalm. Hebrew. mizmor. See App-65.

of David = by David.

LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

the evil = an evil man. Hebrew. ra"a". App-44. man. Hebrew. "adam. App-14.

man. Hebrew "ish. App-14.

Verse 2

Which = Who.

mischiefs. Not the same word as in Psalms 140:9, but the same word as "evil" in Psalms 140:1.

Verse 3

tongues. Singular. See note on Psalms 140:11. Quoted in Romans 3:13.

Selah. Connecting the evil with the prayer to be delivered; thus marking the Structure (App-66)

Verse 4

wicked = lawless. Hebrew. rasha". App-41.

Verse 5

by the wayside. See Job 18:10.

Verse 6

GOD. Hebrew El App-4.

Verse 7

GOD the Lord. Hebrew. Jehovah.Adonai. App-4. (2).

of. Genitive of character = my saving strength. covered = screened or protected. Not the same word as in Psalms 140:9.

Verse 8

wicked. Hebrew. rasha". Singular. App-44. The same word as in Psalms 140:4.

wicked device = devices or plots. Occurs only here.

Verse 9

those that compass me about = one word in Hebrew.

mischief = labour, toil Hebrew. "amal. App-44.

cover = overwhelm. Not the same word as in Psalms 140:7.

Verse 10

burning coals. Put by Figure of speech Metonymy(of Adjunct), App-6, for cruel words and hard speeches which wound the heart as fire wounds the body. Comp. Proverbs 16:27; Proverbs 26:23.

that they, &c. = let them not, &c.

Verse 11

evil speaker. Hebrew a man of tongue; not "a man of lips" (= talkative. Job 11:2), but with an evil motive = a slanderer. Comp. Psalms 140:3.

Evil shall hunt = Let evil hunt.

Verse 12

the afflicted = a poor one.

the poor = helpless ones.

Verse 13

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

dwell in Thy presence. Comp. Psalms 11:7; Psalms 16:11.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 141

Verse 1

Title. A Psalm of David. See Title of 140.

LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

Verse 2

incense. Comp. Exodus 30:7. Revelation 8:3, Revelation 8:4.

sacrifice = gift offering. App-43.

Verse 3

Set a watch = Set a guard. Hebrew. shamrah. Same word as "keep", Psalms 141:9 Occurs only here.

Keep = keep in safety. Not the same word as in Psalms 141:9.

Verse 4

evil. Hebrew. ra"a". App-44.

wicked. Hebrew. rasha". App-44.

men. Hebrew. "ish. App-14.

iniquity. Hebrew. "avert. App-44.

eat: i.e. partake of, or have fellowship with.

dainties = pleasant things. Comp. Psalms 141:6.

Verse 5

the righteous = a righteous one.

an excellent oil = oil for the head. This verse is said to be "extremely obscure" and "corrupt to a degree". The Figure of speech Metalepsis (App-6) makes all clear; "head", being first used for hair, and then for the whole person by Figure of speech Synecdoche (of the Part). Hebrew = "as oil on the hair, I will not refuse it". Note the alternation of lines in this verse.

yet. Same root as "withal" in Psalms 141:10.

Verse 6

When. Not in Hebrew text.

judges = rulers. Comp. 2 Kings 9:33.

in stony places = as by a rock; or, over a rock. Hebrew by the hands of a rock.

They: i.e. the people.

words = sayings. Hebrew. "imrah. App-73.

sweet. Cognate with "dainties", Psalms 141:4.

Verse 7

Our bones. Septuagint (Vatican B, and Alex. A by second hand), Syriac, Arabic, and Ethiop. read "their bones"

the grave"s. Hebrew Sheol"s. App-35. Note the word "bones" in this connection.

cutteth = sliceth, as in 1 Samuel 30:12. Song of Solomon 4:3; Song of Solomon 6:7 (elsewhere rendered "piece" or "pieces"). Never means "ploweth", as in Revised Version.

cleaveth. As in Ecclesiastes 10:9. Zechariah 14:4 (Comp. Genesis 22:3. 1 Samuel 6:14).

Verse 8

GOD the Lord. Hebrew. Jehovah.Adonai. App-4.

is my trust = have I sought refuge. Hebrew. hasah. App-69.

my soul = me (emphatic). Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

Verse 9

Keep. Same root as "watch"in Psalms 141:3. (Hebrew. shamreni.)

snares. Authorized Version, 1611, read "snares" (singular) Since 1769, "snares" (plural) Hebrew text is singular.

gins = traps. Short for "engine" = an ingenious contrivance."

Verse 10

the wicked = lawless ones. Hebrew. rasha". App-44.

withal = Same as "yet", Psalms 141:5.

escape = pass on [in safety].

Bullinger’Notes on Psalm 142

Verse 1

Title. Maschil = Instruction. See App-65.

of David = by David.

when . . . cave. Adullam (1 Samuel 22:1) or En-gedi (1 Samuel 24:3). The last of eight Psalms referring to this subject.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

Verse 3

spirit. Hebrew. ruach. App-9.

was overwhelmed = fainted. Hebrew = was darkened. Comp. Psalms 77:3; Psalms 107:5; Psalms 143:4. Elsewhere only Jonah 2:8, and Lamentations 2:12.

then = then [I remembered] Thou knewest, &c.

Verse 4

beheld. Supply Ellipsis: "beheld [on my left hand], but", &c.

know = regard, or recognize.

my soul = me (emphatic). Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

Verse 5

the land of the living. See note on Ezekiel 26:20.

Verse 6

persecutors = pursuers.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 143

Verse 1

Title. A Psalm of David. Same as 140.

LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

Verse 2

enter not. As in Job 9:32; Job 22:4.

in Thy sight. Comp. 1 Samuel 16:7. Isaiah 55:8. Job 14:3.

no man = no one. Comp. Job 15:14, Job 15:15.

be justified = stand or appear [before Thee] just. The verb is Active. Septuagint, Authorized Version, and Revised Version render it passive. Comp. Romans 3:20. Galatians 1:2, Galatians 1:16.

Verse 3

persecuted = pursued.

my soul = me (emphatic). Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

Verse 4

my spirit = me. Hebrew. ruach. App-9. Figure of speech Synecdoche (of Part), App-6, put for the whole person, for emphasis.

overwhelmed. Same word as Psalms 77:3; Psalms 107:5; Psalms 142:3.

Verse 5

remember. Comp. Psalms 77:5, Psalms 77:10, Psalms 77:11.

muse = talk with myself. t

he work of Thy hands. Some codices, with three early printed editions, Aramaean, Septuagint, and Vulgate, read "works" (plural)

Verse 6

as. Some codices, with seven early printed editions, read "in".

Selah. Connecting and returning to prayer (7-11) as the consequence of the reflection (5, 6). This is the last Selah (of seventy-one) in the Psalms. For three others, see- Habakkuk 3:3, Habakkuk 3:9, Habakkuk 3:13. See App-66.

Verse 7

the pit = a grave. Hebrew. bor. A sepulchre, as hewn out of the rock. Hence rendered cistern, or dry pit. Comp. Genesis 37:20. See note on Genesis 21:19.

Verse 8

lovingkindness: or grace.

trust = confide. Hebrew. batah. App-69.

Verse 9

Deliver me = pluck me [out of the hands of].

flee. Authorized Version, 1611, reads "fly". Since 1629 the reading is "flee".

unto. Some codices, with one early printed edition and Septuagint, read "in". Comp. Psalms 143:8.

Verse 10

will = good pleasure.

God. Hebrew. Elohim. App-4.

Spirit. Hebrew. ruach. App-9.

lead, &c. = It will lead.

land. Some codices, with one early printed edition, read "way"; others, with Syriac, read "path". Comp. Psalms 27:11.

Verse 11

Quicken me = Give, or preserve me in life. See note || on p. 827.

name"s. See note on Psalms 20:1.

Verse 12

mercy = lovingkindness, or grace.

enemies. Comp. Structure, Psalms 143:3.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 144

Verse 1

Title, of David = by David. The Septuagint adds "concerning Goliath." This may be because Psalm 8, which relates to David and Goliath, has the same words in Psalms 8:4 as in Psalms 144:3. In any case, Psalm 144 is peculiarly appropriate to David"s victory (1 Samuel 17). Not a "compilation" of "fragments" of some "lost Psalms", but a perfect whole with a perfect design, as shown by the Structure.

Blessed. Figure of Speech Benedictio (App-6.). Not Beatitudo as in Psalms 144:15.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

strength = rock, or fortress. Comp. Deuteronomy 32:4. 1 Samuel 2:2; 2 Samuel 22:47. 2 Samuel 18:2, 2 Samuel 18:31, 2 Samuel 18:46; 2 Samuel 19:14; 2 Samuel 28:1; 2 Samuel 62:2, 2 Samuel 62:6.

to war . . . to fight. Not merely generally, but specially in the case of Goliath (1Sa 17). See Title.

Verse 2

goodness = lovingkindness. The Syriac reads "refuge".

deliverer = liberator. Hebrew. paLatin Not the same word as in verses: Psalms 144:7, Psalms 144:10, Psalms 144:11. See notes below.

trust = flee for refuge. Hebrew. hasah. App-69.

my People: A special reading called Sevir (see App-34), and some other codices, with Aram, rind Syriac, read "peoples". Comp. Psalms 18:47.

under me. In some codices there is a marginal note: "under Him"; and this is read the text, in some codices.

Verse 3

what . . . ? Figure of speech Erotesis. App-6. Comp. Psalms 8:4.

man. Hebrew. "adam. App-14.

Greek. This word is read in some codices, with one early printed edition.

man. Hebrew. "enosh. App-14.

Verse 4

Man. Hebrew. "adam. App-14.

Verse 6

Cast forth = Flash. Hebrew lighten lightnings. Figure of speech Polyptoton (App-6). See note on Genesis 26:28.

arrows. Figure of speech Anthropopatheia. App-6.

Verse 7

Send = Put forth.

hand. Hebrew text reads "hands" (plural); but some codices, with one early printed edition, Aramaean, Septuagint, Syriac, and Vulgate, read "hand" (singular), which Authorized Version and Revised Version followed.

Rid = snatch. Hebrew. pazah; same word as in Psalms 144:11, and "delivereth", Psalms 144:10.

deliver = pluck, or rescue. Hebrew. nazal; same word as in Psalms 144:11, not the same as in verses: Psalms 144:2, Psalms 144:10.

strange. Always means foreign, in Hebrew, as in early English.

strange children = aliens. Hebrew = sons of the foreigner.

Verse 8

speaketh. Comp. Psalms 144:11; and note the words they speak in verses: Psalms 144:12-15.

Verse 9

God. Hebrew. Elohim. App-4.

Verse 10

delivereth = snatcheth; same word as "rid", verses: Psalms 7:11.

David . . . sword; with special reference to Goliath"s sword in 1 Samuel 17:50, 1 Samuel 17:51.

Verse 12

That = Who. Hebrew. "asher. Supply the Ellipsis thus: "Who [say] our sons are, &c. "All the words in italic type in verses: Psalms 144:12-15 - maybe omitted, or the Present Tense may be supplied throughout. The verb "say" or "saying" is very frequently to be thus understood. See note on Psalms 109:5.

may be. Supply "Are" and omit "That".

Verse 13

sheep = flocks.

streets = open fields. Hebrew that which is outside the house.

Verse 14

strong to labour = well laden.

no breaking in = no invasion.

nor going out = no captivity.

Verse 15

Happy. See App-63. in such a case: i.e. holding the false view that happiness consists in outward prosperity. Comp. Psalms 4:6, Psalms 4:7, and Psalms 146:3 and Psalms 146:5.

Yea. Supply the Ellipsis (App-6), not as in Authorized Version and Revised Version, but [Yea, rather], or [Nay]. The last member (Yea, happy is that People, whose God

is the Lord.) being David"s own words; denying the vain and false words of the aliens (Psalms 144:8 and Psalms 144:12-15), and declaring the truth as to that in which real happiness consists. See note on Psalms 4:6, Psalms 4:7.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 145

Verse 1

Title. David"s [Psalm] of praise. No other Psalm so entitled. An Acrostic Psalm. See App-63.

God. Hebrew. Elohim. App-4.

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

Verse 3

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

Verse 5

glorious, &c. Hebrew = the majesty of the glory of Thine honour. wondrous works = instances or examples of Thy wonders. Hebrew - words of Thy wonders.

Verse 6

And men = And they. See Structure (4-7, above).

terrible. See note on Psalms 111:9.

Verse 7

abundantly utter = pour forth.

Verse 8

gracious, &c. Comp. Exodus 34:6, Exodus 34:7.

of great mercy = great in lovingkindness, or grace.

Verse 9

to all. Septuagint reads "to them that wait on Him".

tender mercies = compassions.

Verse 10

saints = favoured or beloved ones. Comp. Psalms 16:10.

Verse 11

power. Sing, of the Hebrew word "mighty acts" (Psalms 145:4).

Verse 12

men. Hebrew. "adam (with Art.) = mankind. App-14.

Verse 13

an everlasting kingdom = a kingdom for all ages. Looking backward (eternal, Psalms 77:5) as well as forward (everlasting, Psalms 77:7). These words, "Thy kingdom [O Christ] is an everlasting kingdom", were (up to 1893) to be seen on the wall of one of the largest Mosques in Damascus. Formerly it was a Temple of Rimmon. It was turned into the (Christian) Church of St. John the Baptist by Arcadius, later it was made into a Mosque by Caliph Walid I (705-717). It was destroyed by fire on Oct 14, 1893, and subsequently rebuilt. (Enc. Brit vol. 7, p. 785, Camb. (11th) edition.)

generations. Following this verse (13) the Primitive Text read: "Faithful is Jehovah in all His words And holy in all His works", the verse beginning with the missing letter (Nun) = Neeman (= faithful). It is found in some codices, with Septuagint, Syriac, Vulgate, Arabic, and Ethiopic Versions. The Structure (13-20, above) thus confirms the Ancient Versions.

Verse 14

fall = are ready to fall.

raiseth up. Occurs only here and Psalms 146:8.

Verse 15

eyes of all wait. Figure of speech Prosopopoeia. App-6.

Verse 16

Thou. This is emphatic in Sept, Syriac, and Vulgate. Comp. Psalms 104:26.

hand. Figure of speech Anthropopatheia. App-6.

Verse 17

holy = gracious.

Verse 18

nigh: i.e. nigh to help. Comp. Psalms 34:18; Psalms 119:151. Deuteronomy 4:7.

unto all. Note the Figure of speech Anadiplosis (App-6) in the repetition, "to all that call" (for emphasis).

Verse 19

their cry: i.e. for help in distress.

Verse 20

wicked = lawless. Hebrew. rasha. App-44.

Verse 21

let all flesh = all flesh shall, as in Psalms 145:10; thus completing and perfecting the Structure above.

all flesh. Figure of speech Synecdoche (of the Part), App-6, put for all men.

holy. See note on Exodus 3:5.

ever and ever. Many codices, with one early printed edition, here add: "And we will bless Jah: From henceforth even for ever, Praise ye Jah. "Comp. Psalms 115:18.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 146

Verse 1

The first of the five "Hallelujah" Psalms concluding the whole book; each beginning and ending with this word. The first has GENESIS for its subject; the second, Exodus; the third, LEVITICUS the fourth, NUMBERS, and the fifth, DEUTERONOMY. See the Structure, p. 827, and notes below.

Praise ye THE LORD = Hallelu-JAH. App-4.

Praise. Figure of speech Apostrophe. App-6.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

O my soul = O I myself (emphatic). Hebrew. nephesh. App-13.

Verse 2

God. Hebrew. Elohim. App-4.

Verse 3

trust = confidence. Hebrew. batah. App-69.

man. Hebrew. "adam. App-14.

no help = no salvation, or saving help. Comp. Psalms 33:16; Psalms 60:11.

Verse 4

His breath, &c. This verse occurs in the Apocrypha (1 Mace. Psalms 2:63); but why is it assumed that this verse is taken from the Book of Maccabees, instead of this verse in Maccabees being taken from this Psalm?

breath = spirit. Hebrew. ruach. App-9. Not the same word as in Psalms 150:6.

returneth. See Genesis 2:7; Genesis 3:19, and Comp. Ecclesiastes 12:7. Ecclesiastes 104:29.

earth = ground, or dust. Hebrew. "adamah. Not "erez = the Earth.

thoughts = purposes, or plans.

Verse 5

Happy. The last of the twenty-seven Beatitudes in the Book of Psalms. See App-63.

GOD. Hebrew El. App-4.

of Jacob: i.e. the God who met Jacob (Genesis 28:13) when he had nothing (Genesis 32:10 and deserved nothing (but wrath, Genesis 27) and promised him everything. This title answers to the N.T. title "the Godof all grace" (1 Peter 5:10). Happy indeed are all they who have this God for their God.

Whose. Supply the Ellipsis by repeating [Happy he] whose, &c.

hope = expectation.

Verse 6

made heaven, and earth. Another reference to Genesis 1. Comp. Psalms 146:4. See notes on Genesis 14:19 and Deuteronomy 4:26.

Verse 7

food. Hebrew bread. Put by Figure of speech Synecdoche (of Species), App-6, for food in general.

the. No Art. in Hebrew

Verse 9

strangers = aliens.

relieveth. Plenty of saving "help" here. Comp. the contrast with "man", (Psalms 146:3), "no help".

wicked = lawless. Hebrew. rasha".

Verse 10

for ever. Contrast Psalms 146:4. Comp. Revelation 11:15.

Zion. See App-68.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 147

Verse 1

The second of these five Hallelujah Psalms, the EXODUS Psalm.

Praise ye THE LORD. Hebrew Hallelu-JAH. App-4. Not "inserted by mistake in verse Psalms 147:1 instead of in the title", but required here by the Structure. See the Structure.

For. Not "come into the first line from the second by dittography", but an essential part of the second line, which is repeated by the Figure of speech Anadiplosis (App-6) in the third line. The first verse thus does contain two lines (beside the "Hallelujah") like all the other verses.

God. Hebrew. Elohim. App-4.

Verse 2

The LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

doth build up Jerusalem = is Jerusalem"s builder (participle). No reference to post-exilic building. Comp. Psalms 122:3.

gathereth = will gather.

outcasts = the driven away.

Verse 4

stars . . . names. See App-12. Comp. Isaiah 40:26.

names. The reference is to the knowledge of the "names" in building up the nation of Israel. Comp. verses: Psalms 147:2; Psalms 147:20 with Exodus 1:7-20; and verses: Psalms 15:19 with Exodus 20.

Verse 5

our LORD. Hebrew. "Adonim. App-4. Comp. Psalms 135:5.

of great power = abounding in power. Comp. Isaiah 40:26.

Verse 6

the meek = meek or humble ones. Numbers 12:3.

wicked = lawless. Hebrew. rasha. App-44.

Verse 10

He taketh not. Some codices, with Septuagint, Syriac, and Vulgate, read "Nor taketh delight".

man. Hebrew "ish. App-4.

Verse 11

hope in His mercy = wait for His lovingkindness.

Verse 12

Praise the LORD. Not the same word as in Psalms 147:1. Used only by David and Solomon. Zion. See App-68. Zion then still standing.

Verse 13

children = sons.

Verse 14

peace in thy borders = thy borders peace.

Verse 15

commandment = sayings, or utterances. Hebrew. "imrah. See App-73. Comp. Psalms 33:9; Psalms 107:20.

Verse 18

word. Hebrew. dabar = the subject-matter of the articulate utterance (Psalms 147:16). See App-73.

wind. Hebrew. ruach, App-9.

Verse 19

word. Some codices, with Septuagint, Syriac, and Vulgate, read "word". Others read plural.

Jacob . . . Israel. See notes on Genesis 32:28; Comp. Psalms 43:6; Psalms 45:26, Psalms 45:28.

Verse 20

not dealt so, &c. The reference is to Exo 20. Comp. Deuteronomy 4:7, Deuteronomy 4:8; and see App-15.

they have not known them. Septuagint and Vulg, read "He maketh not known to them".

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 148

Verse 1

The third of the last five Hallelujah Psalms. The LEVITICUS Psalm. Comp. Psalms 148:14 with Leviticus 10:3.

Praise ye THE LORD. Hallelu-JAH. App-4.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah.with "eth = Jehovah Himself. App-4.

heights. As in Job 16:19; Job 25:2.

Verse 3

stars of light. Genitive of Origin (App-17.) = stars that give light = lightbearers, as in Genesis 1:14-16.

Verse 6

which shall not pass: or, which [they] shall not pass.

Verse 7

the earth. Note the change and see Structure above.

dragons = sea monsters.

Verse 8

wind. Hebrew. ruach. App-9.

Verse 11

people = peoples.

Verse 13

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

earth and heaven: i.e. combining the two subjects of Psalms 148:1 and Psalms 148:7. This order of these two words occurs only here and Genesis 2:4. Comp. note on Deuteronomy 4:26.

Verse 14

saints = favoured ones, or beloved.

children = sons.

near unto Him. The reference is to Leviticus and its leading thought. See Leviticus 10:3; Leviticus 21:21; and Comp. Psalms 65:4.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 149

Verse 1

The fourth of the concluding five Hallelujah Psalms, answering to NUMBERS. Comp. verses: Psalms 149:5-9 with Numbers 24:17-24.

Praise ye THE LORD. Hebrew Hallelu-JAH. App-4.

the LORD. Hebrew. Jehovah. App-4.

congregation = assembly (in its military aspect).

saints = favoured ones, or beloved, Psalms 149:5.

Verse 2

Israel. Comp. the Structure.

children = sons.

Zion. See App-68.

Verse 3

In the Hebrew this verse is an Introversion:
them praise His name.
the dance.
the drum and harp.
them sing praises unto Him.

name. See note on Psalms 20:1.

timbrel = drum. See note on Exodus 15:20.

Verse 4

taketh pleasure. Comp. Isaiah 54:7, Isaiah 54:8.

Verse 5

in glory = "with [ascriptions of] glory".

beds = couches.

Verse 6

high praises = extollings.

GOD. Hebrew El. App-4.

Verse 7

heathen = nations.

people = peoples.

Verse 9

the judgment written. See Deuteronomy 32:40-43. Comp. Isaiah 45:14. Ezekiel 25:14; Eze 38and Eze 39. Zec 14. The special reference is to Numbers 24:17-24.

Bullinger’s Notes on Psalm 150

Verse 1

The fifth of the last five Hallelujah Psalms, answering to the great thought of DEUTERONOMY. Comp. Psalms 150:2 with Deuteronomy 3:24, and Deuteronomy 32:43.

Praise ye THE LORD. Hebrew Hallelu-JAH. App-4.

GOD. Hebrew El. App-4.

sanctuary. The earthly sanctuary and the heavenly: the lower being formed on the pattern of the higher. See Hebrews 8:5; Hebrews 9:23; and Comp. 1 Chronicles 28:13-13, 1 Chronicles 28:19.

firmament: Hebrew = expanse (Genesis 1:6).

Verse 2

for = in [the recital of] His mighty acts.

mighty acts. Some codices, with Aram, and Syriac, read "His might".

excellent = the abundance of His greatness or grandeur.

Verse 3

the. No Art. in Hebrew text.

Verse 4

timbrel = drum. See note on Exodus 15:20.

organs = pipe, or reed (singular, never pl).

Verse 6

breath. Hebrew. neshamah (see App-16): i.e. in contrast with material instruments.

praise THE LORD. Hebrew. tehallel jah.

Praise ye THE LORD. Hebrew. Halelujah, thus fitly closing the Book of Psalms. Comp. the endings of the other four books; and see notes on p. 720.

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