King James Version
Psalms 68
35 verses with commentary
God Shall Scatter His Enemies
To the chief Musician, A Psalm or Song of David. Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him. before: Heb. from his face
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered: let them also that hate him flee before him.</strong> This opening verse quotes Moses' ancient battle cry from Numbers 10:35, when the ark of the covenant moved forward and Israel's enemies were scattered. The Hebrew imperative 'let God arise' (<em>yaqum Elohim</em>, יָקוּם אֱלֹהִים) pictures God standing from His throne to take action—a theopha...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(1) **Let God arise.**—A reminiscence of the battlecry raised as the ark was advanced at the head of the tribes (Numbers 10:35). For interesting historical associations with this verse, see Gibbon (chap. 58), and Carlyle, *Cromwell’s Letters and Speeches *(Vol. II, 185).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
PSALM 33 Psa 33:1-22. A call to lively and joyous praise to God for His glorious attributes and works, as displayed in creation, and His general and special providence, in view of which, the Psalmist, for all the pious, professes trust and joy and invokes God's mercy.
1-3. The sentiment falls in with Psa 32:11 (compare 1Co 14:15). The instruments (Psa 92:3; 144:9) do not exclude the voice.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 68
Chapter Outline
A prayer--The greatness and goodness of God.
(1-6)
The wonderful works God wrought for his people.(7-14)
The presence of God in his church.(15-21)
The victories of Christ.(22-28)
Enlargement of the church.(29-31)
The glory and grace of God.(32-35)
**Verses 1-6**
None ever hardened his heart against God, and prospered. God is the joy ...
Read full commentary →As smoke is driven away, so drive them away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God.
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KJV Study Commentary
The imagery of smoke driven away and wax melting before fire depicts the total inability of God's enemies to withstand His presence. 'Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered' echoes Numbers 10:35, the prayer when the ark moved forward. Smoke disperses helplessly before wind; wax loses all form before heat—so the wicked perish before God's holiness. This isn't vindictive delight in destruction ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(2) **Smoke.**—The figure of the vanishing smoke has occurred before (see Psalm 37:20); for that of the melting wax see Psalm 97:5. Both figures are too obvious to need reference to the cloud and fire of the ancient encampment.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
4-9. Reasons for praise: first, God's truth, faithfulness, and mercy, generally; then, His creative power which all must honor.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 68
Chapter Outline
A prayer--The greatness and goodness of God.
(1-6)
The wonderful works God wrought for his people.(7-14)
The presence of God in his church.(15-21)
The victories of Christ.(22-28)
Enlargement of the church.(29-31)
The glory and grace of God.(32-35)
**Verses 1-6**
None ever hardened his heart against God, and prospered. God is the joy ...
Read full commentary →But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. exceedingly: Heb. rejoice with gladness
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KJV Study Commentary
In stark contrast to the wicked's demise, 'the righteous shall be glad' in God's presence. The threefold description—glad, rejoice, exceedingly joyful—builds to climax, emphasizing uninhibited celebration. This joy isn't based on circumstantial prosperity but on covenant relationship with God. The righteous find their greatest pleasure in God Himself, His presence their highest reward. This antici...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
4-9. Reasons for praise: first, God's truth, faithfulness, and mercy, generally; then, His creative power which all must honor.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 68
Chapter Outline
A prayer--The greatness and goodness of God.
(1-6)
The wonderful works God wrought for his people.(7-14)
The presence of God in his church.(15-21)
The victories of Christ.(22-28)
Enlargement of the church.(29-31)
The glory and grace of God.(32-35)
**Verses 1-6**
None ever hardened his heart against God, and prospered. God is the joy ...
Read full commentary →Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.</strong> This verse calls for exuberant worship in response to God's mighty acts. The repeated command 'sing... sing praises' emphasizes joyful, musical celebration. 'Extol' (<em>sollu</em>, סֹלּוּ) means to lift up, to prepare a highway—it's the same verb used in Isaiah...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(4) **Sing praises . . .**—Better, *play on the harp.*
**Extol him that rideth upon the heavens.**—Rather, *cast up a highway for him that rideth on the steppes. *(Comp. Isaiah 40:3, of which this is apparently an echo.) The poet’s voice is the herald’s who precedes the army of God to order the removal of all obstructions, and the formation of cairns to mark the road. Isaiah 57:14; Isaiah 62:10, a...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
4-9. Reasons for praise: first, God's truth, faithfulness, and mercy, generally; then, His creative power which all must honor.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 68
Chapter Outline
A prayer--The greatness and goodness of God.
(1-6)
The wonderful works God wrought for his people.(7-14)
The presence of God in his church.(15-21)
The victories of Christ.(22-28)
Enlargement of the church.(29-31)
The glory and grace of God.(32-35)
**Verses 1-6**
None ever hardened his heart against God, and prospered. God is the joy ...
Read full commentary →A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is God in his holy habitation.</strong> This verse reveals God's heart for society's most vulnerable. In the ancient world, orphans and widows had no social safety net—without male family members to provide and protect, they faced exploitation, poverty, and abuse. The Law repeatedly commanded care for these groups (Exodus 22:22-24, Deu...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(5) The LXX. and Vulg. prefix to this verse, “They shall be troubled by the face of Him who is,” &c, which seems to indicate that the abrupt introduction of this description of God is due to some loss in the text.
**A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows.**—These epithets of God seem to have become at a very early period almost proverbial.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
4-9. Reasons for praise: first, God's truth, faithfulness, and mercy, generally; then, His creative power which all must honor.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 68
Chapter Outline
A prayer--The greatness and goodness of God.
(1-6)
The wonderful works God wrought for his people.(7-14)
The presence of God in his church.(15-21)
The victories of Christ.(22-28)
Enlargement of the church.(29-31)
The glory and grace of God.(32-35)
**Verses 1-6**
None ever hardened his heart against God, and prospered. God is the joy ...
Read full commentary →God setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land. in families: Heb. in a house
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KJV Study Commentary
God's care for society's most vulnerable—the fatherless, widows, and prisoners—reveals His character as defender of the powerless. 'Father of the fatherless' shows God's personal involvement, not merely distant compassion. 'Judge of the widows' indicates His role as protector and advocate in legal matters. 'Setteth the solitary in families' demonstrates restorative justice, bringing the isolated i...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(6) **Solitary . . .**—This might refer to the *childless *(comp. Psalm 113:9), but it is better, in connection with the next clause, to think of the exiles scattered and dispersed, and who are by the Divine arm brought home.
**With chains.**—The Hebrew word is peculiar to this passage, and is derived by the Rabbis from a root meaning *to bind. *Modern scholars give “to prosper” as the meaning of ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
4-9. Reasons for praise: first, God's truth, faithfulness, and mercy, generally; then, His creative power which all must honor.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
Chapter 68
Chapter Outline
A prayer--The greatness and goodness of God.
(1-6)
The wonderful works God wrought for his people.(7-14)
The presence of God in his church.(15-21)
The victories of Christ.(22-28)
Enlargement of the church.(29-31)
The glory and grace of God.(32-35)
**Verses 1-6**
None ever hardened his heart against God, and prospered. God is the joy ...
Read full commentary →O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people, when thou didst march through the wilderness; Selah:
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KJV Study Commentary
The imagery shifts to God as military leader: 'O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people' recalls the pillar of cloud and fire leading Israel through the wilderness (Exodus 13:21). 'Marchedst through the wilderness' emphasizes God's active guidance through desolate, dangerous terrain. This was both historical reality and theological paradigm—God goes before His people into hostile territory...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
4-9. Reasons for praise: first, God's truth, faithfulness, and mercy, generally; then, His creative power which all must honor.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-14**
Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. He provided for them, both in the wilderness and in Canaan. The daily manna seems here meant. And it looks to the spiritual provision for God's Israel. The Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentifu...
Read full commentary →The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God: even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel.
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KJV Study Commentary
The theophany at Sinai—earth shaking, heavens dropping rain—demonstrates God's transcendent power breaking into creation. 'The earth shook' (Exodus 19:18) and 'the heavens also dropped' recalls provision of manna and water. 'Sinai itself was moved' emphasizes that even the mountain, symbol of permanence, trembles before God's presence. This revelation established the covenant and gave the law, mar...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
10-11. In God's providence He thwarts men's purposes and executes His own.
**heathen--**literally, "nations."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-14**
Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. He provided for them, both in the wilderness and in Canaan. The daily manna seems here meant. And it looks to the spiritual provision for God's Israel. The Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentifu...
Read full commentary →Thou, O God, didst send a plentiful rain, whereby thou didst confirm thine inheritance, when it was weary. send: Heb. shake out confirm: Heb. confirm it
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KJV Study Commentary
God 'didst send a plentiful rain' upon His inheritance—Israel, the promised land. This 'plentiful rain' may refer to literal provision (manna, quail, water from the rock) or metaphorical spiritual blessing. 'Thou didst confirm it' means God strengthened and established His weary people. The pattern of God refreshing His exhausted inheritance recurs throughout redemptive history, ultimately fulfill...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(9, 10) **Thou, O God . . .**—The text of these two verses literally runs, *A rain of gifts thou shakest out, O God, on thine inheritance, and when exhausted didst refresh it. Thy living creatures dwell therein; thou makest provision of thy goodness for the afflicted, O God. *The rain of gifts has been variously explained as *actual showers, blessings of prosperity, outpourings of the Holy Spirit....
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
10-11. In God's providence He thwarts men's purposes and executes His own.
**heathen--**literally, "nations."
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-14**
Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. He provided for them, both in the wilderness and in Canaan. The daily manna seems here meant. And it looks to the spiritual provision for God's Israel. The Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentifu...
Read full commentary →Thy congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor.
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KJV Study Commentary
God's 'congregation' (assembly of Israel) dwelt in the land He provided. 'Thou, O God, hast prepared of thy goodness for the poor' emphasizes divine initiative—God's provision flows from His character, not human merit. The word 'poor' (ani) often means afflicted or humble, referring to Israel's status in Egypt and the wilderness. God's goodness to the poor reveals His gracious election—He chose Is...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(10) **Thy congregation.**—See above. If the emendation there adopted seems unnecessary, we may render here, *Thy life dwells in her, i.e., *in the people of Israel. (Comp. Psalm 143:3.) The vigour consequent on the heavenly food might be called the Divine life, and conceal a higher application.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
12-19. The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-14**
Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. He provided for them, both in the wilderness and in Canaan. The daily manna seems here meant. And it looks to the spiritual provision for God's Israel. The Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentifu...
Read full commentary →The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it. company: Heb. army
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KJV Study Commentary
The Lord gives the command, and a 'great company' publishes it—women evangelists proclaiming victory. The Hebrew suggests a large multitude of female messengers announcing military triumph, echoing Miriam and the women celebrating the Red Sea victory (Exodus 15:20-21). This shows God's kingdom includes women as heralds of His mighty works, anticipating women's role in announcing Christ's resurrect...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(11-14) These verses refer to the conquest of Canaan, the long history of which is, however, here crowded into one supreme and crowning moment: a word from God, and all was done.
(11) **The Lord gave . . .**—Literally, *The Lord gives a word. Of the women who bring the news, the host is great. *The Hebrew for *a word *is poetical, and used especially of a Divine utterance (Psalm 19:4; Psalm 77:8; ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
12-19. The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-14**
Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. He provided for them, both in the wilderness and in Canaan. The daily manna seems here meant. And it looks to the spiritual provision for God's Israel. The Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentifu...
Read full commentary →Kings of armies did flee apace: and she that tarried at home divided the spoil. did: Heb. did flee, did flee
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KJV Study Commentary
Kings of armies fleeing before God's power depicts divine victory over overwhelming opposition. 'She that tarried at home divided the spoil' means even those who didn't fight share in the victory—God's triumph benefits all His people, not just frontline warriors. This democratization of blessing reflects grace: salvation's benefits flow to all believers through Christ's victory, not our own effort...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(12) **Kings of armies did flee apace**.—Better, *Kings of armies flee, flee. *This and the two next verses wear the air of being a fragment of those ancient battle-songs sung by the women after the defeat of the foe. The fact that they have thus been torn from their original context accounts for the great obscurity which hangs over them.
**And she that tarried . . .**—*i.e.*, the woman keeping th...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
12-19. The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-14**
Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. He provided for them, both in the wilderness and in Canaan. The daily manna seems here meant. And it looks to the spiritual provision for God's Israel. The Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentifu...
Read full commentary →Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.
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KJV Study Commentary
The image of lying among the pots yet becoming like dove's wings covered with silver speaks of transformation from lowliness to beauty. Israel's Egyptian slavery (pots, menial labor) gave way to glory as God's treasured possession. The dove with silver and gold wings suggests radiant purity and value—God takes the despised and makes them glorious, anticipating believers' transformation from spirit...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(13, 14) The agreement of the ancient versions in rendering these difficult verses shows that their obscurity does not arise, as in the case of so many passages of the Psalms, from any corruptions in the text, but from the fact that they are an adaptation of some ancient war-song to circumstances to which we have no clue. If we could recover the allusions, the language would probably appear clear ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
12-19. The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-14**
Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. He provided for them, both in the wilderness and in Canaan. The daily manna seems here meant. And it looks to the spiritual provision for God's Israel. The Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentifu...
Read full commentary →When the Almighty scattered kings in it, it was white as snow in Salmon. in it: or, for her, she
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KJV Study Commentary
The Almighty scattering kings 'in it' (the land) was 'white as snow in Salmon'—a mountain in Israel. The image suggests complete victory, like snow covering a dark mountain, making it white and pure. God's triumph over earthly powers is so thorough that the very landscape reflects His purity and holiness. This points to Christ's ultimate victory that will renew all creation (Revelation 21:5).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
12-19. The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 7-14**
Fresh mercies should put us in mind of former mercies. If God bring his people into a wilderness, he will be sure to go before them in it, and to bring them out of it. He provided for them, both in the wilderness and in Canaan. The daily manna seems here meant. And it looks to the spiritual provision for God's Israel. The Spirit of grace and the gospel of grace are the plentifu...
Read full commentary →The hill of God is as the hill of Bashan; an high hill as the hill of Bashan.
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KJV Study Commentary
The 'hill of God' is Bashan, known for its height and fertility—yet it's called 'high hill.' The comparison between Bashan's impressive height and God's chosen mountain (Zion) prepares for verse 16's revelation that God chooses the humble place. Bashan represents worldly greatness; Zion represents God's sovereign choice. This teaches that God's presence, not natural impressiveness, determines true...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(15-18) A third retrospect follows—the third scene in the sacred drama of Israel’s early fortunes. It sets forth the glory of God’s chosen mountain. A finer passage could hardly be found. The towering ranges of Bashan—Hermon with its snowy peaks—are personified. They become, in the poet’s imagination, envious of the distinction given to the petty heights of Judæa. (Perhaps a similar envy is implie...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
12-19. The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 15-21**
The ascension of Christ must here be meant, and thereto it is applied, Ep 4:8. He received as the purchase of his death, the gifts needful for the conversion of sinners, and the salvation of believers. These he continually bestows, even on rebellious men, that the Lord God might dwell among them, as their Friend and Father. He gave gifts to men. Having received power to give e...
Read full commentary →Why leap ye, ye high hills? this is the hill which God desireth to dwell in; yea, the LORD will dwell in it for ever.
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KJV Study Commentary
Bashan's heights 'leap' with envy at Zion, the hill God chose for His dwelling. Despite Zion's modest elevation, God's selection makes it supremely significant. 'The Lord will dwell in it for ever' promises eternal presence—fulfilled ultimately in the New Jerusalem where God dwells with His people perpetually (Revelation 21:3). Divine choice, not human merit or natural advantage, determines worth ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(16) **Why leap ye?**—The verb occurs only here, but is explained by Delitzsch, by comparison with an Arabic root, to express the attitude of a beast crouching down for a spring on its prey; a fine image: the jealous hills lying, like panthers, ready to spring on the passing Israelites. Or does the old feeling of jealousy of the tribes on the other side of Jordan still show itself lurking in this ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
12-19. The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 15-21**
The ascension of Christ must here be meant, and thereto it is applied, Ep 4:8. He received as the purchase of his death, the gifts needful for the conversion of sinners, and the salvation of believers. These he continually bestows, even on rebellious men, that the Lord God might dwell among them, as their Friend and Father. He gave gifts to men. Having received power to give e...
Read full commentary →The chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels: the Lord is among them, as in Sinai, in the holy place. even: or, even many thousands
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KJV Study Commentary
The 'chariots of God are twenty thousand, even thousands of angels'—divine military force vastly outnumbers earthly armies. 'The Lord is among them, as in Sinai' connects God's ongoing presence with the theophany where He gave the law. God's angelic hosts serve His purposes, protecting His people and executing judgment. This celestial army guarantees victory, as Elisha's servant witnessed (2 Kings...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(17) **The chariots.**—As the text stands, this verse can only be brought into harmony with the context by a certain violence to grammar. Its literal reading is, *God’s chariots, two myriads of thousands, and again myriads of thousands *(literally, *of repetition*)*, the Lord among them, Sinai in holiness; *which, by strict rule, must mean: “God’s chariots are innumerable, and the Lord rides in th...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
12-19. The inference from the foregoing in Psa 33:12 is illustrated by God's special providence, underlying which is His minute knowledge of all men.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 15-21**
The ascension of Christ must here be meant, and thereto it is applied, Ep 4:8. He received as the purchase of his death, the gifts needful for the conversion of sinners, and the salvation of believers. These he continually bestows, even on rebellious men, that the Lord God might dwell among them, as their Friend and Father. He gave gifts to men. Having received power to give e...
Read full commentary →Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them. for men: Heb. in the man
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea, for the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell among them.</strong> This verse prophetically describes God's triumphant ascension after victory, leading captives in procession and receiving tribute. The imagery comes from ancient Near Eastern victory parades, where conquering kings w...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(18) **Thou hast ascended on high.**—Or, *to the height, i.e., *Mount Zion, as in Psalms 24 (Comp. Jeremiah 31:12; Ezekiel 20:40.)
**Captivity captive.**—Or, *captives into captivity. *(See Judges 5:12, Note.)
**For men.**—This rendering is inadmissible. Literally, *in man, *which is equivalent to our *of men. Gifts of men *are therefore *captives *or *hostages, *viz., the *rebellious *in the next...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**20-22. waiteth--**in earnest expectation.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 15-21**
The ascension of Christ must here be meant, and thereto it is applied, Ep 4:8. He received as the purchase of his death, the gifts needful for the conversion of sinners, and the salvation of believers. These he continually bestows, even on rebellious men, that the Lord God might dwell among them, as their Friend and Father. He gave gifts to men. Having received power to give e...
Read full commentary →Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.</strong> This verse celebrates God's ongoing, daily provision for His people. The Hebrew phrase 'loadeth us with benefits' is somewhat obscure—literally, 'who loads for us' (<em>amas lanu</em>, עָמַס לָנוּ). The sense is that God daily burdens Himself with carrying us and our needs, like a pack a...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(19-23) The abrupt transition from the scene of triumph just described to the actual reality of things which the psalmist now for the first time faces, really gives the key to the intention of the poem. It is by God’s favour and might, and not by the sword, that deliverance from the enemies actually threatening the nation is to be expected.
(19) The verb, as the italics of the Authorised Version s...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**20-22. waiteth--**in earnest expectation.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 15-21**
The ascension of Christ must here be meant, and thereto it is applied, Ep 4:8. He received as the purchase of his death, the gifts needful for the conversion of sinners, and the salvation of believers. These he continually bestows, even on rebellious men, that the Lord God might dwell among them, as their Friend and Father. He gave gifts to men. Having received power to give e...
Read full commentary →He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.
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KJV Study Commentary
<strong>He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death.</strong> This verse proclaims God's sovereignty over life and death—He alone possesses the power to save and the authority to deliver from death. 'The God of salvation' (literally 'the God of salvations,' <em>El moshaot</em>, אֵל מוֹשָׁעוֹת, plural) emphasizes God's multiple, varied deliverances...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(20) **He that is.**—The insertion is unnecessary. Render, *God unto us *(*i.e., our God*)* is a God of salvation.*
**Issues from death.**—Literally, *for death goings out. *The same word rendered *issues *in Proverbs 4:23, there means *sources. *Here it will mean *sources of death, *or *escapes from death *as we connect the clause with what precedes or follows; Jehovah would provide an *issue out...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**20-22. waiteth--**in earnest expectation.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 15-21**
The ascension of Christ must here be meant, and thereto it is applied, Ep 4:8. He received as the purchase of his death, the gifts needful for the conversion of sinners, and the salvation of believers. These he continually bestows, even on rebellious men, that the Lord God might dwell among them, as their Friend and Father. He gave gifts to men. Having received power to give e...
Read full commentary →But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.
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KJV Study Commentary
God 'shall wound the head of his enemies' echoes Genesis 3:15's proto-gospel: the Seed would crush the serpent's head. The 'hairy scalp' of the impenitent suggests pride and unrepentant wickedness. God's judgment is certain for those who persist in rebellion. This ultimate head-wound finds fulfillment in Christ's decisive victory over Satan at Calvary—though Satan bruised Christ's heel, Christ cru...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(21) **Hairy scalp.**—Literally, *crown, *or *top, *or *head of hair. *The word is rendered “pate” in Psalm 7:16. This is probably a portrait of some historical person hostile to Israel. Others take it as a type of pride and arrogance, comparing the use of the Greek verb κομαν*. *The word “scalp,” properly *shell *(comp. “skull”), was a word in common use at the time of the translation of the Engl...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 15-21**
The ascension of Christ must here be meant, and thereto it is applied, Ep 4:8. He received as the purchase of his death, the gifts needful for the conversion of sinners, and the salvation of believers. These he continually bestows, even on rebellious men, that the Lord God might dwell among them, as their Friend and Father. He gave gifts to men. Having received power to give e...
Read full commentary →The Lord said, I will bring again from Bashan, I will bring my people again from the depths of the sea:
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KJV Study Commentary
God promises to 'bring again from Bashan' and 'from the depths of the sea,' meaning no distance or obstacle prevents Him from saving His people or judging enemies. Whether scattered in distant mountains or drowned in the sea, God's power reaches everywhere. This anticipates Christ's promise that nothing can separate believers from God's love (Romans 8:38-39) and His power to rescue from any peril.
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(22) **I will bring.**—The meaning of this verse is very obscure. It is plainly another fragment of some ancient song quoted, we can hardly doubt, with reference to the return from captivity. “Bashan” and the “depths of the sea” (comp. Amos 9:1-10) may, in the quotation, only stand generally for *east *and *west, *the sea being here the Mediterranean. But most probably the original verse referred ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
PSALM 34 Psa 34:1-22. On the title compare 1Sa 21:13. Abimelech was the general name of the sovereign (Ge 20:2). After celebrating God's gracious dealings with him, the Psalmist exhorts others to make trial of His providential care, instructing them how to secure it. He then contrasts God's care of His people and His punitive providence towards the wicked.
1-4. Even in distress, which excites sup...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 22-28**
The victories with which God blessed David over the enemies of Israel, are types of Christ's victory, for himself and for all believers. Those who take him for theirs, may see him acting as their God, as their King, for their good, and in answer to their prayers; especially in and by his word and ordinances. The kingdom of the Messiah shall be submitted to by all the rulers an...
Read full commentary →That thy foot may be dipped in the blood of thine enemies, and the tongue of thy dogs in the same. dipped: or, red
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KJV Study Commentary
The graphic imagery of feet dipped in blood and dogs licking enemies' blood depicts complete military victory. While unsettling, this language emphasizes total triumph over evil. In ancient warfare, such imagery signified decisive, irreversible defeat. Spiritually, it points to Christ's absolute victory over sin, death, and Satan—a victory so complete that His enemies are made His footstool (Psalm...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(23) **That thy foot.**—This makes an unnecessary transposition of a very involved sentence. The image is perfectly clear, though the syntax, as often happens in all languages, goes tripping itself up. The conqueror, after wading in the blood of his enemies, is met by the dogs, who lick his gory feet. With a change of one letter we may render, “That thou mayest wash thy foot in blood—yea, the tong...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
PSALM 34 Psa 34:1-22. On the title compare 1Sa 21:13. Abimelech was the general name of the sovereign (Ge 20:2). After celebrating God's gracious dealings with him, the Psalmist exhorts others to make trial of His providential care, instructing them how to secure it. He then contrasts God's care of His people and His punitive providence towards the wicked.
1-4. Even in distress, which excites sup...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 22-28**
The victories with which God blessed David over the enemies of Israel, are types of Christ's victory, for himself and for all believers. Those who take him for theirs, may see him acting as their God, as their King, for their good, and in answer to their prayers; especially in and by his word and ordinances. The kingdom of the Messiah shall be submitted to by all the rulers an...
Read full commentary →They have seen thy goings, O God; even the goings of my God, my King, in the sanctuary.
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KJV Study Commentary
The procession of God into the sanctuary represents Israel bringing the ark to the temple or celebrating a festival. 'My God, my King' personalizes the relationship—not just national deity but personal Lord. The procession 'into the sanctuary' foreshadows Christ's ascension into heaven's true sanctuary (Hebrews 9:24) after accomplishing redemption. This victorious entrance celebrates completed wor...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(24-27) These hopes of national deliverance are kept alive in the worship of the sanctuary, which the poet now proceeds to describe. A solemn procession advances to the Temple, and we have a description of it by one evidently as interested in this ritual as familiar with it.
(24) **Goings.**—Better, *processions. *(Comp. Psalm 42:4.)
**In the sanctuary.**—Rather, *into the sanctuary.*
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
PSALM 34 Psa 34:1-22. On the title compare 1Sa 21:13. Abimelech was the general name of the sovereign (Ge 20:2). After celebrating God's gracious dealings with him, the Psalmist exhorts others to make trial of His providential care, instructing them how to secure it. He then contrasts God's care of His people and His punitive providence towards the wicked.
1-4. Even in distress, which excites sup...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 22-28**
The victories with which God blessed David over the enemies of Israel, are types of Christ's victory, for himself and for all believers. Those who take him for theirs, may see him acting as their God, as their King, for their good, and in answer to their prayers; especially in and by his word and ordinances. The kingdom of the Messiah shall be submitted to by all the rulers an...
Read full commentary →The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; among them were the damsels playing with timbrels.
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KJV Study Commentary
The worship procession includes singers leading, musicians following, and damsels with timbrels (tambourines) in the midst—ordered, joyful celebration. This organized worship shows preparation and intentionality, not chaos. Each group contributes uniquely: singers proclaim truth, musicians enhance beauty, dancers express joy. Corporate worship at its best combines various gifts in unified praise, ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(25) **Players**—*i.e., *harpers.
**Playing with timbrels.**—Or, *beating the tambourine. *For this instrument (Heb., *tôph*) see Exodus 15:20, and comp. Judges 11:34.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
PSALM 34 Psa 34:1-22. On the title compare 1Sa 21:13. Abimelech was the general name of the sovereign (Ge 20:2). After celebrating God's gracious dealings with him, the Psalmist exhorts others to make trial of His providential care, instructing them how to secure it. He then contrasts God's care of His people and His punitive providence towards the wicked.
1-4. Even in distress, which excites sup...
Read full commentary →Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 22-28**
The victories with which God blessed David over the enemies of Israel, are types of Christ's victory, for himself and for all believers. Those who take him for theirs, may see him acting as their God, as their King, for their good, and in answer to their prayers; especially in and by his word and ordinances. The kingdom of the Messiah shall be submitted to by all the rulers an...
Read full commentary →Bless ye God in the congregations, even the Lord, from the fountain of Israel. from: or, ye that are of the fountain of Israel
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KJV Study Commentary
The call to 'Bless ye God in the congregations' emphasizes corporate worship's importance. The specific mention 'from the fountain of Israel' roots this in covenant identity—worship flows from being God's chosen people. Fountain imagery suggests life-giving source; Israel's identity and worship spring from God's elective grace. New Testament believers worship 'from the fountain' of Christ's life-g...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(26) **Bless ye.**—Apparently these words are part of the processional hymn. But in Judges 5:9 a similar outburst of praise appears to come from the poet.
**From the fountain of Israel.**—A comparison with Isaiah 48:1; Isaiah 51:1, certainly allows us to understand this *in the congregations sprung from the head waters *(as we say) *of the races, i.e., *the patriarchal ancestors. At the same time ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
5-7. God's favor to the pious generally, and to himself specially, is celebrated.
**looked--**with desire for help.
**lightened--**or, "brightened," expressing joy, opposed to the downcast features of those who are ashamed or disappointed (Psa 25:2, 3).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 22-28**
The victories with which God blessed David over the enemies of Israel, are types of Christ's victory, for himself and for all believers. Those who take him for theirs, may see him acting as their God, as their King, for their good, and in answer to their prayers; especially in and by his word and ordinances. The kingdom of the Messiah shall be submitted to by all the rulers an...
Read full commentary →There is little Benjamin with their ruler, the princes of Judah and their council, the princes of Zebulun, and the princes of Naphtali. and their: or, with their company
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KJV Study Commentary
The listing of tribes—little Benjamin leading, princes of Judah, Zebulun, and Naphtali—represents all Israel unified in worship. Benjamin, smallest yet leading, shows God's delight in elevating the humble. Judah's prominence anticipates Messiah's royal lineage. Including northern tribes (Zebulun, Naphtali) emphasizes unity despite later divisions. This diverse yet unified assembly foreshadows the ...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(27) **There is . . .**—The procession is apparently a representative one. and the conjecture is probable which refers the selection of Zebulun and Naphtali to their prominence in Deborah’s song. Benjamin may owe its position to the fact that it gave the nation its first king, and Judah would naturally figure in the pomp as the tribe of David. But other considerations besides may have had weight. ...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
5-7. God's favor to the pious generally, and to himself specially, is celebrated.
**looked--**with desire for help.
**lightened--**or, "brightened," expressing joy, opposed to the downcast features of those who are ashamed or disappointed (Psa 25:2, 3).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 22-28**
The victories with which God blessed David over the enemies of Israel, are types of Christ's victory, for himself and for all believers. Those who take him for theirs, may see him acting as their God, as their King, for their good, and in answer to their prayers; especially in and by his word and ordinances. The kingdom of the Messiah shall be submitted to by all the rulers an...
Read full commentary →Thy God hath commanded thy strength: strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us.
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KJV Study Commentary
The prayer 'Thy God hath commanded thy strength' acknowledges that all power comes from divine command, not human ability. 'Strengthen, O God, that which thou hast wrought for us' recognizes God as both initiator and sustainer of His work. Believers cannot maintain what God begins—ongoing divine power is necessary. This anticipates Paul's teaching that God both begins and completes His work in bel...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(28) **Thy God hath commanded.**—Rather, with LXX. and the ancient versions generally, *Ordain, O God, thy strength.*
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
5-7. God's favor to the pious generally, and to himself specially, is celebrated.
**looked--**with desire for help.
**lightened--**or, "brightened," expressing joy, opposed to the downcast features of those who are ashamed or disappointed (Psa 25:2, 3).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 22-28**
The victories with which God blessed David over the enemies of Israel, are types of Christ's victory, for himself and for all believers. Those who take him for theirs, may see him acting as their God, as their King, for their good, and in answer to their prayers; especially in and by his word and ordinances. The kingdom of the Messiah shall be submitted to by all the rulers an...
Read full commentary →Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.
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KJV Study Commentary
The temple in Jerusalem becomes the focus of worship for all nations—'kings shall bring presents unto thee.' This missionary vision sees Gentile rulers honoring Israel's God, partially fulfilled when Queen of Sheba visited Solomon (1 Kings 10), ultimately fulfilled in Christ's kingdom where every knee bows (Philippians 2:10-11). God's purpose has always been global worship, using Israel as the mea...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(29) **Kings.**—This verse is a strong argument for referring the psalm either to the time of the rebuilding of the Temple, or its re-dedication after the pollution by Antiochus Epiphanes.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**8. taste and see--**try and experience.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-31**
A powerful invitation is given to those that are without, to join the church. Some shall submit from fear; overcome by their consciences, and the checks of Providence, they are brought to make peace with the church. Others will submit willingly, ver. #(29-31). There is that beauty and benefit in the service of God, and in the gospel of Christ which went forth from Jerusalem, w...
Read full commentary →Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, till every one submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people that delight in war. the company: or, the beasts of the reeds scatter: or, he scattereth
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KJV Study Commentary
The 'company of spearmen' and 'multitude of bulls with calves' represent aggressive military powers and wealthy nations—both are rebuked. God scatters 'people that delight in war,' showing His opposition to those who love violence and conquest. Submission with 'pieces of silver' indicates tribute from conquered nations. God humbles proud powers, establishing His peaceful kingdom—ultimately through...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(30) **Rebuke . . .**—See margin, which (if we change *beasts *to *beast*) gives the right rendering. So LXX. and Vulgate. The *beast of the reed *is undoubtedly symbolical of Egypt, whether it be the *crocodile *or the *hippopotamus.*
**Bulls . . . calves.**—These are possibly emblems respectively of the *strong *and the *weak*—the *princes *and the *common people. *(Comp., for a somewhat similar...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**9. that fear him--**who are pious--fear and love (Pr 1:7; 9:10).
**saints--**consecrated to His service (Is 40:31).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-31**
A powerful invitation is given to those that are without, to join the church. Some shall submit from fear; overcome by their consciences, and the checks of Providence, they are brought to make peace with the church. Others will submit willingly, ver. #(29-31). There is that beauty and benefit in the service of God, and in the gospel of Christ which went forth from Jerusalem, w...
Read full commentary →Princes shall come out of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God.
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KJV Study Commentary
Princes from Egypt and Ethiopia (Cush) 'stretching out hands unto God' depicts willing submission to Israel's God by historically proud nations. Egypt enslaved Israel; Ethiopia represented distant, foreign peoples. Their voluntary worship fulfills prophecies that all nations will honor Yahweh (Isaiah 19:19-25). This anticipates the gospel's spread to Africa and worldwide, as seen in Philip's Ethio...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(31) **Princes.**—Or, *magnates.*
**Ethiopia.**—Literally, *Cush shall make to run his hands to God, *an idiom easily intelligible, expressing hasty submission.
(32–35) A noble doxology, worthy of the close of one of the finest Hebrew hymns.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**10. not want any good--**"good" is emphatic; they may be afflicted (compare Psa 34:10); but this may be a good (2Co 4:17, 18; He 12:10, 11).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 29-31**
A powerful invitation is given to those that are without, to join the church. Some shall submit from fear; overcome by their consciences, and the checks of Providence, they are brought to make peace with the church. Others will submit willingly, ver. #(29-31). There is that beauty and benefit in the service of God, and in the gospel of Christ which went forth from Jerusalem, w...
Read full commentary →Sing unto God, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises unto the Lord; Selah:
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KJV Study Commentary
The call for earth's kingdoms to sing to the Lord universalizes worship—not just Israel but ALL kingdoms. This doxological imperative anticipates the Great Commission's call to disciple all nations (Matthew 28:19). The refrain 'Selah' (pause and reflect) invites meditation on this stunning vision: every political entity acknowledging God's sovereignty. Worship becomes the climax of human history.
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(32) **Sing praises . . .**—Better, *play and sing. *The Selah, as in some other cases, is introduced where to our sense of rhythm it is quite out of place.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**11. children--**subjects of instruction (Pr 1:8, 10).
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 32-35**
God is to be admired and adored with reverence and godly fear, by all that attend in his holy places. The God of Israel gives strength and power unto his people. Through Christ strengthening us we can do all things, not otherwise; therefore he must have the glory of all we do, with our humble thanks for enabling us to do it, and for accepting the work of his hands in us.
To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, which were of old; lo, he doth send out his voice, and that a mighty voice. send: Heb. give
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KJV Study Commentary
God 'rideth upon the heavens of heavens, which were of old'—sovereign over all creation from eternity. His voice is a 'mighty voice,' echoing Sinai's thunder and creation's 'Let there be.' This majestic language emphasizes transcendence: God infinitely surpasses creation. Yet He's not distant—He 'sends out his voice,' actively communicating with His creatures. Christ is God's ultimate Word sent fo...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
**12. What man--**Whoever desires the blessings of piety, let him attend.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 32-35**
God is to be admired and adored with reverence and godly fear, by all that attend in his holy places. The God of Israel gives strength and power unto his people. Through Christ strengthening us we can do all things, not otherwise; therefore he must have the glory of all we do, with our humble thanks for enabling us to do it, and for accepting the work of his hands in us.
Ascribe ye strength unto God: his excellency is over Israel, and his strength is in the clouds. clouds: or, heavens
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KJV Study Commentary
The imperative 'Ascribe ye strength unto God' calls worshipers to attribute all power to God alone. His 'excellency is over Israel'—covenant people experience His glory uniquely. 'His strength is in the clouds'—God's power pervades even the heavens. True worship recognizes that every good thing originates with God (James 1:17), not human achievement. This guards against pride and cultivates humble...
Read full commentary →Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
13-14. Sins of thought included in those of speech (Lu 6:45), avoiding evil and doing good in our relations to men are based on a right relation to God.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 32-35**
God is to be admired and adored with reverence and godly fear, by all that attend in his holy places. The God of Israel gives strength and power unto his people. Through Christ strengthening us we can do all things, not otherwise; therefore he must have the glory of all we do, with our humble thanks for enabling us to do it, and for accepting the work of his hands in us.
O God, thou art terrible out of thy holy places: the God of Israel is he that giveth strength and power unto his people. Blessed be God.
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KJV Study Commentary
God is 'terrible out of thy holy places'—His sanctuary reveals both beauty and fearsome holiness. The 'God of Israel' gives strength and power 'unto his people'—divine empowerment for living. 'Blessed be God' concludes with doxology, the only appropriate response to contemplating God's character. Holiness inspires awe, covenant relationship provides strength, and both lead to blessing God. Worship...
Read full commentary →Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers
(35) **Out of thy holy places**—*i.e., out of Zion. *The plural “places” occurs also in Ps. lxxiii, 17 (Heb.).
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
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Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
13-14. Sins of thought included in those of speech (Lu 6:45), avoiding evil and doing good in our relations to men are based on a right relation to God.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
**Verses 32-35**
God is to be admired and adored with reverence and godly fear, by all that attend in his holy places. The God of Israel gives strength and power unto his people. Through Christ strengthening us we can do all things, not otherwise; therefore he must have the glory of all we do, with our humble thanks for enabling us to do it, and for accepting the work of his hands in us.