Psalms 79 — Jamieson–Fausset–Brown
79:1
1. (Compare Psa 74:2-7).
79:2–3
2-3. (Compare Jr 15:3; 16:4).
79:4
4. (Compare Psa 44:13; Jr 42:18; La 2:15).
79:5
5. How long--(Psa 13:1). be angry--(Psa 74:1-10). jealousy burn--(De 29:20).
79:6–7
6-7. (Compare Jr 10:25). Though we deserve much, do not the heathen deserve more for their violence to us (Jr 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 (Is 12:4; Ac 2:21).
79:8
8. former iniquities--literally, "iniquities of former times." prevent us--literally, "meet us," as in Psa 21:3.
79:9
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 Ep 1:7).
79:10
10. This ground of pleading often used (Ex 32:12; Nu 14:13-16). blood ... shed--(Psa 79:3).
79:11
11. prisoner--the whole captive people. power--literally, "arm" (Psa 10:15).
79:12
12. into their bosom--The lap or folds of the dress is used by Eastern people for receiving articles. The figure denotes retaliation (compare Is 65:6, 7). They reproached God as well as His people.
79:13
13. sheep ... pasture--(Compare Psa 74:1; 78:70).