_A.M. 2959. B.C. 1045._ This Psalm contains an admonition, either, 1st, To the chief rulers of Israel, whether judges or kings, or their great council, called the Sanhedrim. Or, rather, 2d, To all the rulers of the world, to whom this word might come; as may be inferred, partly from the expressions... [ Continue Reading ]
_God standeth in the congregation_ As a judge, diligently to observe all that is said or done there, and to give sentence accordingly. The judge _sits_ when he hears causes, but _stands_ up when he gives sentence. Or _standing_ may here be intended, not to denote the posture of the person, but only... [ Continue Reading ]
_How long will ye judge unjustly?_ The psalmist speaks to them in God's name, and reproves them for their continued unrighteousness in their public administrations; _and accept the persons of the wicked_ By overlooking the merits of the cause, and giving sentence according to your respect or affecti... [ Continue Reading ]
_Defend the poor and fatherless_ As far as justly you may: for so this clause must be limited, as appears by comparing it with Leviticus 19:15. _Do justice to the afflicted and needy_ Hebrew, הצדיקו, _hatzdiku, justify him_, namely, when his cause is good, and he is oppressed by a potent adversary.... [ Continue Reading ]
_They know not_ That is, the magistrates, of whom this Psalm treats, are not acquainted with, and will not be at the pains to learn the truth and right of the causes which come before them, nor the duty of their place. _Neither will they understand_ This their ignorance is wilful and affected: they... [ Continue Reading ]
_I have said, Ye are gods_ I have given you my name and power to rule your people in my stead; _and all of you_ Not only the rulers of Israel, but of all other nations; (for _the powers that be are ordained of God, Romans 13:1_;) _are children of the Most High_ Representing my person, and bearing bo... [ Continue Reading ]
_Arise, O God, judge the earth_ Seeing the state of the world is so universally corrupt and desperate, and the vicegerents betray their trust, and oppress the nations of the earth, which they were appointed to preserve, do thou, therefore, O God, take the sword of justice into thine own hand, and ma... [ Continue Reading ]