Psalms 147:1-20

CXLVII. The LXX, perhaps rightly, divides the Ps. into two, Psalms 147:1 and Psalms 147:12.

Psalms 147:1. An invitation to praise Yahweh for His almighty power and His kindness to Israel. Observe how the two thoughts are intertwined. After Psalms 147:8 c the LXX has, and herbage for the service of men. In Psalms 147:10 the legs of a man is curious. Swift running is a characteristic of the Homeric heroes, but the emendation, armour of a man, is tempting.

Psalms 147:12. The thought of Psalms 147:1 recurs, here addressed to Jerusalem and specially to Zion. In Psalms 147:17 ice is said to be sent forth in small fragments. Perhaps the Psalmist was thinking of hail.