Psalms 79 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
PSALM 79 Psa 79:1-13 . This Psalm, like the seventy-fourth, probably depicts the desolations of the Chaldeans ( Jr 52:12-24 ). It comprises the usual complaint, prayer, and promised thanks for relief. 1. (Compare Psa 74:2-7 ).
2-3. (Compare Jr 15:3 ; 16:4 ).
4. (Compare Psa 44:13 ; Jr 42:18 ; La 2:15 ).
5. How long-- ( Psa 13:1 ). be angry-- ( Psa 74:1-10 ). jealousy burn-- ( De 29:20 ).
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 ).
8. former iniquities-- literally, "iniquities of former times." prevent us-- literally, "meet us," as in Psa 21:3 .
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 ).
10. This ground of pleading often used ( Ex 32:12 ; Nu 14:13-16 ). blood ... shed-- ( Psa 79:3 ).
11. prisoner-- the whole captive people. power-- literally, "arm" ( Psa 10:15 ).
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.