Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 79

Verses 1-13

PSALM 79

Ps 79:1-13. This Psalm, like the seventy-fourth, probably depicts the desolations of the Chaldeans (Jer 52:12-24). It comprises the usual complaint, prayer, and promised thanks for relief.

1. (Compare Ps 74:2-7).

Verses 2

2, 3. (Compare Jer 15:3; 16:4).

Verses 3-4

4. (Compare Ps 44:13; Jer 42:18; La 2:15).

Verses 5

5. How long—(Ps 13:1).

be angry—(Ps 74:1-10).

jealousy burn—(De 29:20).

Verses 6

6, 7. (Compare Jer 10:25). Though we deserve much, do not the heathen deserve more for their violence to us (Jer 51:3-5; Zec 1:14)? The singular denotes the chief power, and the use of the plural indicates the combined confederates.

called upon—or, "by"

thy name—proclaimed Thy attributes and professed allegiance (Isa 12:4; Ac 2:21).

Verses 7-8

8. former iniquities—literally, "iniquities of former times."

prevent us—literally, "meet us," as in Ps 21:3.

Verses 9

9. for … glory of thy name [and for] thy name's sake—both mean for illustrating Thy attributes, faithfulness, power, &c.

purge … sins—literally, "provide atonement for us." Deliverance from sin and suffering, for their good and God's glory, often distinguish the prayers of Old Testament saints (compare Eph 1:7).

Verses 10

10. This ground of pleading often used (Ex 32:12; Nu 14:13-16).

blood … shed—(Ps 79:3).

Verses 11

11. prisoner—the whole captive people.

power—literally, "arm" (Ps 10:15).

Verses 12

12. into their bosom—The lap or folds of the dress is used by Eastern people for receiving articles. The figure denotes retaliation (compare Isa 65:6, 7). They reproached God as well as His people.

Verses 13

13. sheep … pasture—(Compare Ps 74:1; 78:70).

Jamieson, Fausset & Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory (1871). Public domain.