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The Blue Letter Bible

Jamieson, Fausset & Brown :: Commentary on Psalm 120

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The Book of Psalms

Commentary by A. R. FAUSSET

PSALM 120

Psa 120:1-7. This is the first of fifteen Psalms (Psalms 120-134) entitled "A Song of Degrees" ( Psa 121:1 --literally, "A song for the degrees"), or ascents. It seems most probable they were designed for the use of the people when going up (compare 1Ki 12:27, 28 ) to Jerusalem on the festival occasions ( Deu 16:16 ), three times a year. David appears as the author of four, Solomon of one ( Psa 127:1 ), and the other ten are anonymous, probably composed after the captivity. In this Psalm the writer acknowledges God's mercy, prays for relief from a malicious foe, whose punishment he anticipates, and then repeats his complaint.

      2, 3. Slander and deceit charged on his foes implies his innocence.
      tongue--as in Psa 52:2, 4.

      4. Sharp arrows of the mighty--destructive inflictions.
      coals of juniper--which retain heat long. This verse may be read as a description of the wicked, but better as their punishment, in reply to the question of Psa 120:3.

      5. A residence in these remote lands pictures his miserable condition.

      6, 7. While those who surrounded him were maliciously hostile, he was disposed to peace. This Psalm may well begin such a series as this, as a contrast to the promised joys of God's worship.

Introduction to Job ← Prior Book
Introduction to Proverbs Next Book →
Commentary on Psalm 119 ← Prior Chapter
Commentary on Psalm 121 Next Chapter →
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