Psalms 73 — Jamieson–Fausset–Brown
73:1
1. The abrupt announcement of the theme indicates that it is the conclusion of a perplexing mental conflict, which is then detailed (compare Jr 12:1-4). Truly--or, "Surely it is so." clean heart--(Psa 18:26) describes the true Israel.
73:2
2. The figures express his wavering faith, by terms denoting tottering and weakness (compare Psa 22:5; 62:3).
73:3–9
3-9. The prosperous wicked are insolently proud (compare Psa 5:5). They die, as well as live, free from perplexities: pride adorns them, and violence is their clothing; indeed they are inflated with unexpected success. With all this--
73:10–12
10-12. Hence God's people are confounded, turned hither (or back) and thither, perplexed with doubts of God's knowledge and care, and filled with sorrow.
73:13–14
13-14. The Psalmist, partaking of these troubles, is especially disturbed in view of his own case, that with all his diligent efforts for a holy life, he is still sorely tried.
73:15
15. Freed from idiomatic phrases, this verse expresses a supposition, as, "Had I thus spoken, I should," c., intimating that he had kept his troubles to himself. generation of thy children--Thy people (1Jo 3:1). offend--literally, "deceive, mislead."
73:16–17
16-17. Still he-- thought--literally, "studied," or, "pondered this riddle"; but in vain; it remained a toil (compare Margin), till he--
73:18–20
18-20. their end--future (Psa 37:37, 38), which is dismal and terribly sudden (Pr 1:27; 29:1), aggravated and hastened by terror. As one despises an unsubstantial dream, so God, waking up to judgment (Psa 7:6; 44:23), despises their vain shadow of happiness (Psa 39:6; Is 29:7). They are thrown into ruins as a building falling to pieces (Psa 74:3).
73:21–22
21-22. He confesses how-- foolish--literally, "stupid," and ignorant--literally, "not discerning," had been his course of thought.
73:23
23. Still he was with God, as a dependent beneficiary, and so kept from falling (Psa 73:2).
73:24
24. All doubts are silenced in confidence of divine guidance and future glory. receive me to glory--literally, "take for (me) glory" (compare Psa 68:18; Ep 4:8).
73:25–26
25-26. God is his only satisfying good.
73:27–28
27-28. The lot of apostates, described by a figure of frequent use (Jr 3:1, 3; Eze 23:35), is contrasted with his, who finds happiness in nearness to God (Jas 4:8), and his delightful work the declaration of His praise.