Psalms 107
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Psalms 107
O Give Thanks Unto the LORD, for He Is Good
1O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
PSALM 107
Psa 107:1-43. Although the general theme of this Psalm may have been suggested by God's special favor to the Israelites in their restoration from captivity, it must be regarded as an instructive celebration of God's praise for His merciful providence to all men in their various emergencies. Of these several are given--captivity and bondage, wanderings by land and sea, and famine; some as evidences of God's displeasure, and all the deliverances as evidence of His goodness and mercy to them who humbly seek Him.
1-2. This call for thankful praise is the burden or chorus (compare Psa 107:8, 15, &c.).
PSALM 107
Psa 107:1-43. Although the general theme of this Psalm may have been suggested by God's special favor to the Israelites in their restoration from captivity, it must be regarded as an instructive celebration of God's praise for His merciful providence to all men in their various emergencies. Of these several are given--captivity and bondage, wanderings by land and sea, and famine; some as evidences of God's displeasure, and all the deliverances as evidence of His goodness and mercy to them who humbly seek Him.
1-2. This call for thankful praise is the burden or chorus (compare Psa 107:8, 15, &c.).
The Pulpit Commentary
O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good (comp. Psa_106:1; Psa_118:1; Psa_136:1). For his mercy endureth forever (see the comment on Psa_106:1).
O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good (comp. Psa_106:1; Psa_118:1; Psa_136:1). For his mercy endureth forever (see the comment on Psa_106:1).
2Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;
The Pulpit Commentary
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so. "The redeemed of the Lord" in this place are those whom the Lord has just delivered out of exile and captivity (comp. Isa_44:22-24; Isa_51:11; Jer_31:11; Zec_10:8, etc.). The writer calls on them to give voice to the thanksgiving of Psa_107:1. Whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; i.e. of Babylon.
Let the redeemed of the Lord say so. "The redeemed of the Lord" in this place are those whom the Lord has just delivered out of exile and captivity (comp. Isa_44:22-24; Isa_51:11; Jer_31:11; Zec_10:8, etc.). The writer calls on them to give voice to the thanksgiving of Psa_107:1. Whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; i.e. of Babylon.
3And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
3. gathered--alluding to the dispersion of captives throughout the Babylonian empire.
from the south--literally, "the sea," or, Red Sea (Psa 114:3), which was on the south.
3. gathered--alluding to the dispersion of captives throughout the Babylonian empire.
from the south--literally, "the sea," or, Red Sea (Psa 114:3), which was on the south.
The Pulpit Commentary
And gathered them out of the lands (compare the prayer of Psa_106:47; and for the expression, "the lands"—i.e. the foreign countries—see Psa_106:27; Ezr_9:1). From the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south. The present Hebrew text has מִיָּם, "from the sea" and so the LXX; ἀπὸ θαλάσσης—but it is thought that probably מִיָּם is a corruption of מִיָּמִין (Cheyne), which would mean "from the south."
And gathered them out of the lands (compare the prayer of Psa_106:47; and for the expression, "the lands"—i.e. the foreign countries—see Psa_106:27; Ezr_9:1). From the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south. The present Hebrew text has מִיָּם, "from the sea" and so the LXX; ἀπὸ θαλάσσης—but it is thought that probably מִיָּם is a corruption of מִיָּמִין (Cheyne), which would mean "from the south."
4They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
4-7. A graphic picture is given of the sufferings of those who from distant lands returned to Jerusalem; or,
city of habitation--may mean the land of Palestine.
4-7. A graphic picture is given of the sufferings of those who from distant lands returned to Jerusalem; or,
city of habitation--may mean the land of Palestine.
The Pulpit Commentary
The form is historical, but the intention is to describe a recurrent event. Men from time to time wander—lose their way—either literally, or in the wilderness of life, grow faint and weary, and are ready to perish. But if they cry to God, God gives them aid, succors them, saves them. Then let them praise and thank him.
They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in. It is, perhaps, best to divide this verse as was done by the LXX; who attached דרךְ, "way," to the latter clause. So Cheyne, who translates, "They wandered in the wilderness, yea, in the desert; they found no road to a city of habitation." So also Rosenmüller.
The form is historical, but the intention is to describe a recurrent event. Men from time to time wander—lose their way—either literally, or in the wilderness of life, grow faint and weary, and are ready to perish. But if they cry to God, God gives them aid, succors them, saves them. Then let them praise and thank him.
They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in. It is, perhaps, best to divide this verse as was done by the LXX; who attached דרךְ, "way," to the latter clause. So Cheyne, who translates, "They wandered in the wilderness, yea, in the desert; they found no road to a city of habitation." So also Rosenmüller.
5Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.
The Pulpit Commentary
Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Either actual hunger and thirst, or dissatisfaction with life, may be intended.
Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Either actual hunger and thirst, or dissatisfaction with life, may be intended.
6Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.
The Pulpit Commentary
Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble (comp. Psa_106:44, and the comment ad loc.). And he delivered them out of their distresses. "Distresses" may be a plural of amplification, or it may point to the triple suffering—hunger, thirst, faintness.
Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble (comp. Psa_106:44, and the comment ad loc.). And he delivered them out of their distresses. "Distresses" may be a plural of amplification, or it may point to the triple suffering—hunger, thirst, faintness.
7And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.
The Pulpit Commentary
And he led them forth by the right way; or, "by a straight way"—a way in which there was no crookedness. That they might go to a city of habitation. The same phrase as in Psa_107:4. A city suitable for habitation is meant.
And he led them forth by the right way; or, "by a straight way"—a way in which there was no crookedness. That they might go to a city of habitation. The same phrase as in Psa_107:4. A city suitable for habitation is meant.
8Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
8-9. To the chorus is added, as a reason for praise, an example of the extreme distress from which they had been delivered--extreme hunger, the severest privation of a journey in the desert.
8-9. To the chorus is added, as a reason for praise, an example of the extreme distress from which they had been delivered--extreme hunger, the severest privation of a journey in the desert.
The Pulpit Commentary
Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness! Here the refrain occurs for the first time. Note its repetition in Psa_107:15, Psa_107:21, and Psa_107:31. It is an earnest call on those who have experienced God's mercies to be thankful. And for his wonderful works to the children of men! or, "his wonderful doings."
Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness! Here the refrain occurs for the first time. Note its repetition in Psa_107:15, Psa_107:21, and Psa_107:31. It is an earnest call on those who have experienced God's mercies to be thankful. And for his wonderful works to the children of men! or, "his wonderful doings."
9For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
The Pulpit Commentary
For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. The "satisfaction" intended seems to be spiritual rather than material (comp. Psa_34:10; Luk_1:53). God alone can satisfy the cravings of man's spiritual nature.
For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. The "satisfaction" intended seems to be spiritual rather than material (comp. Psa_34:10; Luk_1:53). God alone can satisfy the cravings of man's spiritual nature.
10Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron;
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-16. Their sufferings were for their rebellion against (Psa 105:28) the words, or purposes, or promises, of God for their benefit. When humbled they cry to God, who delivers them from bondage, described as a dark dungeon with doors and bars of metal, in which they are bound in iron--that is, chains and fetters.
shadow of death--darkness with danger (Psa 23:4).
10-16. Their sufferings were for their rebellion against (Psa 105:28) the words, or purposes, or promises, of God for their benefit. When humbled they cry to God, who delivers them from bondage, described as a dark dungeon with doors and bars of metal, in which they are bound in iron--that is, chains and fetters.
shadow of death--darkness with danger (Psa 23:4).
The Pulpit Commentary
There are others afflicted differently—struck down by some grievous calamity, imprisonment, earthly ruin, down fall of their hopes, a sense of their bondage to sin—who suffer perhaps even more than the dissatisfied wanderers. They too may cry to God in their trouble; and when they do, they experience his mercy. Let them join in the chorus of praise.
Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death (comp. Job_16:16; Job_36:8). The expressions used are purposely vague, being intended to cover various sorts of misery. Being bound in affliction and iron; i.e. "in an affliction which holds them like bands of iron" (comp. Psa_107:17).
There are others afflicted differently—struck down by some grievous calamity, imprisonment, earthly ruin, down fall of their hopes, a sense of their bondage to sin—who suffer perhaps even more than the dissatisfied wanderers. They too may cry to God in their trouble; and when they do, they experience his mercy. Let them join in the chorus of praise.
Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death (comp. Job_16:16; Job_36:8). The expressions used are purposely vague, being intended to cover various sorts of misery. Being bound in affliction and iron; i.e. "in an affliction which holds them like bands of iron" (comp. Psa_107:17).
11Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High:
The Pulpit Commentary
Because they rebelled against the words of God. Such deep affliction as is here spoken of scarcely ever comes upon any but those who have offended God by resisting his will. And contemned the counsel of the most High (comp. Pro_1:25). The "counsel of God" is the course of conduct which he has prescribed to man, whether through the reason and conscience that he has implanted in him, or through his revealed Word.
Because they rebelled against the words of God. Such deep affliction as is here spoken of scarcely ever comes upon any but those who have offended God by resisting his will. And contemned the counsel of the most High (comp. Pro_1:25). The "counsel of God" is the course of conduct which he has prescribed to man, whether through the reason and conscience that he has implanted in him, or through his revealed Word.
12Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help.
The Pulpit Commentary
Therefore he brought down their heart with labor; rather, with misery, or with sorrow. They fell down; i.e. collapsed—sank to the earth. And there was none to help. They were like Job; no one gave them any help in their affliction.
Therefore he brought down their heart with labor; rather, with misery, or with sorrow. They fell down; i.e. collapsed—sank to the earth. And there was none to help. They were like Job; no one gave them any help in their affliction.
13Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses.
The Pulpit Commentary
Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses (comp. Psa_107:6, and see also Psa_107:19 and Psa_107:28).
Then they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses (comp. Psa_107:6, and see also Psa_107:19 and Psa_107:28).
14He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder.
The Pulpit Commentary
He brought them out of dark ness and the shadow of death. Wherein they sat (Psa_107:10). And brake their bands in sunder. Freed them from their fetters (Psa_107:10), whatever they were.
Oh that men, etc.! A repetition of Psa_107:8.
He brought them out of dark ness and the shadow of death. Wherein they sat (Psa_107:10). And brake their bands in sunder. Freed them from their fetters (Psa_107:10), whatever they were.
Oh that men, etc.! A repetition of Psa_107:8.
15Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
16For he hath broken the gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder.
The Pulpit Commentary
For he hath broken the gates of brass. God completely liberates the un happy ones who turn to him; removes every restraint that confines and galls them; breaks on their behalf, as it were, "gates of brass." And cut the bars of iron in sunder. Snaps fetters and prison bars.
For he hath broken the gates of brass. God completely liberates the un happy ones who turn to him; removes every restraint that confines and galls them; breaks on their behalf, as it were, "gates of brass." And cut the bars of iron in sunder. Snaps fetters and prison bars.
17Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
17-22. Whether the same or not, this exigency illustrates that dispensation of God according to which sin brings its own punishment.
are afflicted--literally, "afflict themselves," that is, bring on disease, denoted by loathing of food, and drawing
17-22. Whether the same or not, this exigency illustrates that dispensation of God according to which sin brings its own punishment.
are afflicted--literally, "afflict themselves," that is, bring on disease, denoted by loathing of food, and drawing
The Pulpit Commentary
A third class of persons under God's displeasure are punished by grievous sickness, and brought to the very verge of the grave. They, too, in many cases, turn to God, and, "crying to him," are delivered from their peril. It is for them, under such circumstances, to make a return by means of praise and thanks giving.
Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted. Some read חוֹלִים, "sick men," for אֱוִלִים, "fools," here. But the change is not necessary. Folly and sin are regarded as two aspects of the same moral condition by the sacred writers, and sickness is spoken of as an ordinary punishment for them (Job_33:17-22; 2Ki_5:27; 2Ch_21:15; 2Ch_26:16-19; Act_12:23).
A third class of persons under God's displeasure are punished by grievous sickness, and brought to the very verge of the grave. They, too, in many cases, turn to God, and, "crying to him," are delivered from their peril. It is for them, under such circumstances, to make a return by means of praise and thanks giving.
Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted. Some read חוֹלִים, "sick men," for אֱוִלִים, "fools," here. But the change is not necessary. Folly and sin are regarded as two aspects of the same moral condition by the sacred writers, and sickness is spoken of as an ordinary punishment for them (Job_33:17-22; 2Ki_5:27; 2Ch_21:15; 2Ch_26:16-19; Act_12:23).
18Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death.
The Pulpit Commentary
Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat (comp. Job_33:20; Psa_102:4). And they draw near unto the gates of death. See Psa_9:13; and compare Ἤκω νεκρῶν κευθμῶνα καὶ σκότου πύλας λιπών (Eurip; 'Hec.,' 1)
Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat (comp. Job_33:20; Psa_102:4). And they draw near unto the gates of death. See Psa_9:13; and compare Ἤκω νεκρῶν κευθμῶνα καὶ σκότου πύλας λιπών (Eurip; 'Hec.,' 1)
19Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses.
The Pulpit Commentary
Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he sayeth them out of their distresses (see above, Psa_107:6 and Psa_107:13).
Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he sayeth them out of their distresses (see above, Psa_107:6 and Psa_107:13).
★20He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.
The Pulpit Commentary
He sent his word. and healed them; rather, he sends his word, and heals them (see the Revised Version). The "word" intended may be a message sent by a human messenger, like the "word" sent to Hezekiah in. his sickness (2Ki_20:4; Isa_38:4); or it may be a thought suggested to the mind either directly by God, or by an angel, like that spoken of in Job_33:23, Job_33:24; or, lastly, it may be the actual Word of God (Joh_1:1), the Son, sent by the Father. But this last sense can scarcely have been in the writer's mind. And delivered them from their destructions; or, "from their grave-pits" (Kay, Cheyne). The word used occurs only here and in Lain. Job_4:20, where it is translated "pits."
He sent his word. and healed them; rather, he sends his word, and heals them (see the Revised Version). The "word" intended may be a message sent by a human messenger, like the "word" sent to Hezekiah in. his sickness (2Ki_20:4; Isa_38:4); or it may be a thought suggested to the mind either directly by God, or by an angel, like that spoken of in Job_33:23, Job_33:24; or, lastly, it may be the actual Word of God (Joh_1:1), the Son, sent by the Father. But this last sense can scarcely have been in the writer's mind. And delivered them from their destructions; or, "from their grave-pits" (Kay, Cheyne). The word used occurs only here and in Lain. Job_4:20, where it is translated "pits."
21Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
The Pulpit Commentary
Oh that men, etc.! A repetition of Psa_107:8 and Psa_107:15.
Oh that men, etc.! A repetition of Psa_107:8 and Psa_107:15.
22And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.
The Pulpit Commentary
And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving; compare the expression, "the calves of our lips" (Hos_14:2), and see also Heb_13:15. And declare his works with rejoicing; i.e. joyfully pro claim the great things that God has done for them.
And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving; compare the expression, "the calves of our lips" (Hos_14:2), and see also Heb_13:15. And declare his works with rejoicing; i.e. joyfully pro claim the great things that God has done for them.
They That Go Down to the Sea in Ships
23They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
23-32. Here are set forth the perils of seafaring, futility of man's, and efficiency of God's, help.
go ... sea--alluding to the elevation of the land at the coast.
23-32. Here are set forth the perils of seafaring, futility of man's, and efficiency of God's, help.
go ... sea--alluding to the elevation of the land at the coast.
The Pulpit Commentary
Finally, there are eases among those whose business requires them to traverse the sea, where the danger is great, and death seems imminent. Let such persons cast themselves upon God, and "cry to him in their trouble," and they too will be heard and delivered. Must it not be their duty also to give thanks?
They that go down to the sea in ships. That many of the Israelites engaged in maritime pursuits appears from 1Ki_9:26-28; 1Ki_10:22; 1Ki_22:48; 2Ch_20:36; as also from Jdg_5:17; Psa_48:7; Pro_23:34; Pro_30:19; and from many passages of the Apocrypha. Joppa was at all times an Israelite port, from which trade was carried on by the residents (2Ch_2:16; Ezr_3:7; Jon_1:3). That do business in great waters; i.e. the sea of Galilee and Lake Merom.
Finally, there are eases among those whose business requires them to traverse the sea, where the danger is great, and death seems imminent. Let such persons cast themselves upon God, and "cry to him in their trouble," and they too will be heard and delivered. Must it not be their duty also to give thanks?
They that go down to the sea in ships. That many of the Israelites engaged in maritime pursuits appears from 1Ki_9:26-28; 1Ki_10:22; 1Ki_22:48; 2Ch_20:36; as also from Jdg_5:17; Psa_48:7; Pro_23:34; Pro_30:19; and from many passages of the Apocrypha. Joppa was at all times an Israelite port, from which trade was carried on by the residents (2Ch_2:16; Ezr_3:7; Jon_1:3). That do business in great waters; i.e. the sea of Galilee and Lake Merom.
24These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep.
The Pulpit Commentary
These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep. Storms, tempests, and sudden deliverances are the "wonders" especially meant (comp. Act_27:14-44; 2Co_11:25).
These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep. Storms, tempests, and sudden deliverances are the "wonders" especially meant (comp. Act_27:14-44; 2Co_11:25).
25For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.
The Pulpit Commentary
For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind (comp. Psa_147:15, Psa_147:18; Jon_1:4). The operations of nature are constantly spoken of in Scripture as God's direct doing. Which lifteth up the waves thereof; or, "the waves that are his" (compare, in Psa_147:17, Psa_147:18, "his ice, his cold, his wind").
For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind (comp. Psa_147:15, Psa_147:18; Jon_1:4). The operations of nature are constantly spoken of in Scripture as God's direct doing. Which lifteth up the waves thereof; or, "the waves that are his" (compare, in Psa_147:17, Psa_147:18, "his ice, his cold, his wind").
26They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.
The Pulpit Commentary
They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths. Tossed on the foaming billows, now carried up until they seem almost to touch the sky (see Gen_11:4), anon sinking into the trough of the sea, and as it were swallowed up in its depths. Their soul is melted because of trouble; or, "their soul melteth away in the trouble" (Cheyne).
They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths. Tossed on the foaming billows, now carried up until they seem almost to touch the sky (see Gen_11:4), anon sinking into the trough of the sea, and as it were swallowed up in its depths. Their soul is melted because of trouble; or, "their soul melteth away in the trouble" (Cheyne).
27They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit’s end.
The Pulpit Commentary
They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man. The oldest sailor "loses his sea-legs," and staggers about the deck like a landsman, or like one drunk. And are at their wit's end; literally, as in the margin, and all their wisdom is swallowed. But the English idiom of the Authorized Version is a very happy, one, and exactly expresses the writer's meaning. All the seaman's intelligence is at fault, and can suggest nothing.
They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man. The oldest sailor "loses his sea-legs," and staggers about the deck like a landsman, or like one drunk. And are at their wit's end; literally, as in the margin, and all their wisdom is swallowed. But the English idiom of the Authorized Version is a very happy, one, and exactly expresses the writer's meaning. All the seaman's intelligence is at fault, and can suggest nothing.
28Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
The Pulpit Commentary
Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses. Practically identical with Psa_107:6, Psa_107:13, and Psa_107:19.
Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses. Practically identical with Psa_107:6, Psa_107:13, and Psa_107:19.
★29He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
The Pulpit Commentary
He maketh the storm a calm; i.e. he causes the wind to drop, and to be succeeded by a "great calm" (comp. Mat_8:26). Such sudden changes do sometimes occur, not only in inland seas, but on the Mediterranean (see Jon_1:15). So that the waves thereof are still; literally, the waves of them; i.e. of the great waters (see Psa_107:23).
He maketh the storm a calm; i.e. he causes the wind to drop, and to be succeeded by a "great calm" (comp. Mat_8:26). Such sudden changes do sometimes occur, not only in inland seas, but on the Mediterranean (see Jon_1:15). So that the waves thereof are still; literally, the waves of them; i.e. of the great waters (see Psa_107:23).
30Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
The Pulpit Commentary
Then are they glad because they be quiet; or, "because they be at rest," i.e. no longer tempest-tossed. So he bringeth them unto their desired haven; literally, the haven of their desire; i.e. the haven where they desire to be.
Then are they glad because they be quiet; or, "because they be at rest," i.e. no longer tempest-tossed. So he bringeth them unto their desired haven; literally, the haven of their desire; i.e. the haven where they desire to be.
31Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
The Pulpit Commentary
Oh that men, etc. Repeated from Psa_107:8, Psa_107:15, and Psa_107:21.
Oh that men, etc. Repeated from Psa_107:8, Psa_107:15, and Psa_107:21.
32Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.
The Pulpit Commentary
The righteous shall see it, and rejoice. Experience will justify God's ways to man. "The righteous"—his people—will see that the general course of God's providence is such as described (Psa_107:33-41), and will "rejoice" that it is so. And all iniquity shall stop her mouth. The gain sayers, unable to impugn the righteousness of the Divine proceedings, shall have no resource but to sit still and hold their tongues.
The righteous shall see it, and rejoice. Experience will justify God's ways to man. "The righteous"—his people—will see that the general course of God's providence is such as described (Psa_107:33-41), and will "rejoice" that it is so. And all iniquity shall stop her mouth. The gain sayers, unable to impugn the righteousness of the Divine proceedings, shall have no resource but to sit still and hold their tongues.
He Turneth Rivers into a Wilderness
33He turneth rivers into a wilderness, and the watersprings into dry ground;
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
33-41. He turneth rivers into a wilderness, &c.--God's providence is illustriously displayed in His influence on two great elements of human prosperity, the earth's productiveness and the powers of government. He punishes the wicked by destroying the sources of fertility, or, in mercy, gives fruitfulness to deserts, which become the homes of a busy and successful agricultural population. By a permitted misrule and tyranny, this scene of prosperity is changed to one of adversity. He rules rulers, setting up one and putting down another.
33-41. He turneth rivers into a wilderness, &c.--God's providence is illustriously displayed in His influence on two great elements of human prosperity, the earth's productiveness and the powers of government. He punishes the wicked by destroying the sources of fertility, or, in mercy, gives fruitfulness to deserts, which become the homes of a busy and successful agricultural population. By a permitted misrule and tyranny, this scene of prosperity is changed to one of adversity. He rules rulers, setting up one and putting down another.
The Pulpit Commentary
Professor Cheyne finds in this passage—which he views as an "appendix" to the psalm—a falling off from the earlier portion of the psalm, and a set of "sentences strung together without much reflection." But to others the transition from special deliverances to God's general dealings with mankind seems an enlargement and an advance in the thought, although the language may be less graphic and more commonplace than in the former portion of the composition.
He turneth rivers into a wilderness. God can, and does, by the operation of his providence, turn lands naturally fertile—lands abounding with streams—into arid wastes, either by such a physical catastrophe as that which blasted the cities of the plain (Gen_19:24, Gen_19:25), or by such moral changes as have turned Babylonia from a garden into a desert, a miserable howling wilderness (comp. Psa_13:1-6 :15-22; Psa_1:2; Jer_1:13-15, 38-40; Jer_51:13, Jer_51:37-43, etc.). And the water springs into dry ground. The phrase is varied, but the meaning is the same. God has full control over nature, and can either take back his blessings, or render them of no avail.
Professor Cheyne finds in this passage—which he views as an "appendix" to the psalm—a falling off from the earlier portion of the psalm, and a set of "sentences strung together without much reflection." But to others the transition from special deliverances to God's general dealings with mankind seems an enlargement and an advance in the thought, although the language may be less graphic and more commonplace than in the former portion of the composition.
He turneth rivers into a wilderness. God can, and does, by the operation of his providence, turn lands naturally fertile—lands abounding with streams—into arid wastes, either by such a physical catastrophe as that which blasted the cities of the plain (Gen_19:24, Gen_19:25), or by such moral changes as have turned Babylonia from a garden into a desert, a miserable howling wilderness (comp. Psa_13:1-6 :15-22; Psa_1:2; Jer_1:13-15, 38-40; Jer_51:13, Jer_51:37-43, etc.). And the water springs into dry ground. The phrase is varied, but the meaning is the same. God has full control over nature, and can either take back his blessings, or render them of no avail.
34A fruitful land into barrenness, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein.
The Pulpit Commentary
A fruitful land into barrenness; literally, into saltness. The judgment upon Sodom and Gomorrah is probably in the writer's mind. For the wickedness of them that dwell therein. God does not capriciously withdraw his blessings from a land. If he turns a fruitful land into a barren one, we may be sure that the inhabitants have provoked him by their sins.
A fruitful land into barrenness; literally, into saltness. The judgment upon Sodom and Gomorrah is probably in the writer's mind. For the wickedness of them that dwell therein. God does not capriciously withdraw his blessings from a land. If he turns a fruitful land into a barren one, we may be sure that the inhabitants have provoked him by their sins.
35He turneth the wilderness into a standing water, and dry ground into watersprings.
The Pulpit Commentary
He turneth the wilderness into a standing water; rather, a wilderness (comp. Isa_35:7; Isa_41:18). And dry ground into water springs. The entire verse is antithetical to Psa_107:33.
He turneth the wilderness into a standing water; rather, a wilderness (comp. Isa_35:7; Isa_41:18). And dry ground into water springs. The entire verse is antithetical to Psa_107:33.
36And there he maketh the hungry to dwell, that they may prepare a city for habitation;
The Pulpit Commentary
And there he maketh the hungry to dwell. God gives the laud, which he has thus blessed, to some previously famishing people; as he did Canaan to Israel after they had had but scant fare in the wilderness. That they may prepare a city for habitation; literally, and they prepare. It is naturally their first thought to prepare themselves a settled dwelling-place (comp. Gen_4:17; Gen_11:4; Gen_25:16, etc.).
And there he maketh the hungry to dwell. God gives the laud, which he has thus blessed, to some previously famishing people; as he did Canaan to Israel after they had had but scant fare in the wilderness. That they may prepare a city for habitation; literally, and they prepare. It is naturally their first thought to prepare themselves a settled dwelling-place (comp. Gen_4:17; Gen_11:4; Gen_25:16, etc.).
37And sow the fields, and plant vineyards, which may yield fruits of increase.
The Pulpit Commentary
And sow the fields; literally, and sow fields—the first act of a settled population. And plant vineyards. The second act in a wine-producing country. Bread and wine were recognized in the East as the prime necessaries of life (see Gen_14:18; Jdg_9:13; Jdg_19:19; 2Sa_6:19; Neh_5:15; Psa_104:15; Dan_1:5, etc.). Which may yield fruits of increase; rather, and get them; literally, make them. The expression, "fruits of increase," points to the abundance of the harvest and vintage.
And sow the fields; literally, and sow fields—the first act of a settled population. And plant vineyards. The second act in a wine-producing country. Bread and wine were recognized in the East as the prime necessaries of life (see Gen_14:18; Jdg_9:13; Jdg_19:19; 2Sa_6:19; Neh_5:15; Psa_104:15; Dan_1:5, etc.). Which may yield fruits of increase; rather, and get them; literally, make them. The expression, "fruits of increase," points to the abundance of the harvest and vintage.
38He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly; and suffereth not their cattle to decrease.
The Pulpit Commentary
He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly. With in creasing prosperity comes increase of population, naturally—i.e. by God's ordinary providence. This increase is, however, only a blessing within certain limits. And suffereth not their cattle to decrease. This modest under-statement suggests an enormous increase (comp. Job_42:12).
He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly. With in creasing prosperity comes increase of population, naturally—i.e. by God's ordinary providence. This increase is, however, only a blessing within certain limits. And suffereth not their cattle to decrease. This modest under-statement suggests an enormous increase (comp. Job_42:12).
39Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.
The Pulpit Commentary
Again. There is no "again" in the original, but merely the usual yaw conjunctive. Still, in the thought, there is no doubt an abrupt transition. The writer turns to the darker side of the picture. They are minished and brought low. God shows his providence, not merely in blessing, but also in chastising. Even the very nation which has been the most highly favored may, by misconduct, fall under his displeasure and suffer at his hands. Their population is diminished; they arc "bowed down" (Revised Version), or "brought low." Calamities of various kinds befall them. Sometimes their decline is brought about through oppression, which may be either the cruel rule of a native monarch, such as Saul, or the still heavier yoke of a foreign power, like Egypt or Babylon. Sometimes it comes from such an affliction as bad harvests, plagues of locusts, or pestilence. Sometimes it is brought about by sorrow—the death of a good ruler in the flower of his age, the extinction of a royal stock, the destruction of a nation's best and bravest on battle-fields, and the like. But in all calamities alike it is God's hand that deals the blow.
Again. There is no "again" in the original, but merely the usual yaw conjunctive. Still, in the thought, there is no doubt an abrupt transition. The writer turns to the darker side of the picture. They are minished and brought low. God shows his providence, not merely in blessing, but also in chastising. Even the very nation which has been the most highly favored may, by misconduct, fall under his displeasure and suffer at his hands. Their population is diminished; they arc "bowed down" (Revised Version), or "brought low." Calamities of various kinds befall them. Sometimes their decline is brought about through oppression, which may be either the cruel rule of a native monarch, such as Saul, or the still heavier yoke of a foreign power, like Egypt or Babylon. Sometimes it comes from such an affliction as bad harvests, plagues of locusts, or pestilence. Sometimes it is brought about by sorrow—the death of a good ruler in the flower of his age, the extinction of a royal stock, the destruction of a nation's best and bravest on battle-fields, and the like. But in all calamities alike it is God's hand that deals the blow.
40He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way.
The Pulpit Commentary
He poureth contempt upon princes. A direct quotation from Job_12:21, but not therefore to be regarded as spurious, since the sacred writers often quote one another, and the psalmists especially are very much in the habit of citing, or referring to Job (see, in this very psalm, besides the present passage, Psa_107:10, Psa_107:18 (bis), Psa_107:20, Psa_107:34, Psa_107:41, and Psa_107:42). And causeth them to wander in the wilderness; rather, a wilderness (comp. Job_12:24). Where there is no way. "Wandering in a wilderness without a way denotes helpless embarrassment" (Hengstenberg).
He poureth contempt upon princes. A direct quotation from Job_12:21, but not therefore to be regarded as spurious, since the sacred writers often quote one another, and the psalmists especially are very much in the habit of citing, or referring to Job (see, in this very psalm, besides the present passage, Psa_107:10, Psa_107:18 (bis), Psa_107:20, Psa_107:34, Psa_107:41, and Psa_107:42). And causeth them to wander in the wilderness; rather, a wilderness (comp. Job_12:24). Where there is no way. "Wandering in a wilderness without a way denotes helpless embarrassment" (Hengstenberg).
41Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction, and maketh him families like a flock.
The Pulpit Commentary
Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction. Even in such dread calamities, when a whole nation is punished, God's providence protects the poor and needy—not of course in all, but still in very many, eases. The mower's scythe passes over the humblest flowers. And maketh him families like a flock (setup. Job_21:11). Those whom God thus preserves he collects into "families," and looks after as carefully as a shepherd looks after his sheep.
Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction. Even in such dread calamities, when a whole nation is punished, God's providence protects the poor and needy—not of course in all, but still in very many, eases. The mower's scythe passes over the humblest flowers. And maketh him families like a flock (setup. Job_21:11). Those whom God thus preserves he collects into "families," and looks after as carefully as a shepherd looks after his sheep.
42The righteous shall see it, and rejoice: and all iniquity shall stop her mouth.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
42-43. In this providential government, good men will rejoice, and the cavils of the wicked will be stopped (Job 5:16; Is 52:15), and all who take right views will appreciate God's unfailing mercy and unbounded love.
42-43. In this providential government, good men will rejoice, and the cavils of the wicked will be stopped (Job 5:16; Is 52:15), and all who take right views will appreciate God's unfailing mercy and unbounded love.
43Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the lovingkindness of the LORD.
The Pulpit Commentary
Whoso is wise, and will observe these things; rather, let him observe these things. It is assumed that they are open to be observed by all; they are the patent facts of human life. Even they; rather, and they. Shall understand the loving kindness of the Lord; literally, loving-kindnesses; i.e. many acts of loving-kindness.
Whoso is wise, and will observe these things; rather, let him observe these things. It is assumed that they are open to be observed by all; they are the patent facts of human life. Even they; rather, and they. Shall understand the loving kindness of the Lord; literally, loving-kindnesses; i.e. many acts of loving-kindness.
THE HOLY BIBLE
Psalms
Chapter 107
Translated out of the original tongues, and with the former translations diligently compared and revised.
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“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” — PSALM 119:105