Salmos 80:1

The reference to the shepherd, so characteristic of the Asaphic psalms, is, no doubt, here chosen especially in recollection of Gênesis 48:15; Gênesis 49:24. “Shepherd” and “Rock” were Jacob’s especial names for God, as the “Fear” was that of Isaac, and the “Mighty” that of Abraham; but in the blessing of Joseph the patriarch seems to have made more than usually solemn pronunciation of it. It is, therefore, very doubtful whether we must press the selection of Joseph here as a distinct and intended reference to the northern tribes or kingdom, in distinction to Judah or the southern kingdom.

Dwellest. — Rather, sittest (enthroned). (Comp. Salmos 99:1.) That this is not a merely poetical idea drawn from clouds (as possibly in Salmos 18:10), but is derived from the throne, upheld by the wings of the sculptured cherubim in the Temple, is proved by Êxodo 25:22. (Comp. Números 7:89. Comp. also “chariot of the cherubim,” 1 Crônicas 28:18; Sir. 49:8; also Isaías 6:1; Isaías 37:16; Ezequiel 1:26.)