United Commentaries

Ps.81.1-16

This warning message invites Israel to worship only the Lord and to enjoy the fullness of his blessing.

Ps.81.1-3

As a prelude to the message of warning, the psalmist invites Israel to contemplate their God in song and dance.

Ps.81.2

An Israelite tambourine was a hand drum—a round frame covered with a skin, used as a percussion instrument during festivities, often to accompany dancing (68:25; 149:3; 150:4).

The sweet lyre and the harp, both stringed instruments, are the instruments most frequently mentioned in the psalms (e.g., 33:2; 57:8; 71:22; 150:3).

Ps.81.3

The ram’s horn mustered armies and announced special holy days (47:5; 98:6).

new moon: The first day of the lunar month marked a festival.

Ps.81.4-5

The festival, a time to celebrate and listen to the Lord, took place at God’s appointed time.

Ps.81.5

for Israel: Literally for Joseph. The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh (the sons of Joseph) are used here to refer to the entire nation of Israel.

Ps.81.6-7

The Lord heard Israel’s cry in Egypt and rescued them from oppressive slavery.

Ps.81.8-10

God pleads with his people to remember the covenant and the Ten Commandments.

Ps.81.10

God emphasizes that he and no one else rescued Israel.

The nation should open its mouth wide to take in God’s word (cp. Deut 8:3; Ezek 3:1).

Ps.81.11-16

The Lord helps Israel to understand that their failure was not because of his weakness.

Ps.81.13-14

God wants to give his children his goodness, but only if they listen (Isa 1:18-19; 28:12; 48:18-19; see Deut 6:3).

God promises to subdue the enemies (Deut 9:3) of those who walk the paths of obedience and loyalty. He will also richly feed his people (Isa 1:19).