Copyright StatementThese files are a derivative of an electronic edition prepared from text scanned by Woodside Bible Fellowship.
This expanded edition of the Jameison-Faussett-Brown Commentary is in the public domain and may be freely used and distributed.
Bibliographical InformationJamieson, Robert, D.D.; Fausset, A. R.; Brown, David. "Commentary on Psalms 83". "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible". https://studylight.org/
commentaries/eng/jfb/psalms-83.html. 1871-8.
Introduction
PSALM 83
:-. Of Asaph—(See on :-, title). The historical occasion is probably that of 2 Chronicles 20:1; 2 Chronicles 20:2 (compare Psalms 47:1-9; Psalms 48:1-14). After a general petition, the craft and rage of the combined enemies are described, God's former dealings recited, and a like summary and speedy destruction on them is invoked.
Verse 1
1. God addressed as indifferent (compare Psalms 35:22; Psalms 39:12).
be not still—literally, "not quiet," as opposed to action.
Verse 2
2. thine enemies—as well as ours (Psalms 74:23; Isaiah 37:23).
Verse 3
3. hidden ones—whom God specially protects (Psalms 27:5; Psalms 91:1).
Verse 4
4. from being a nation—utter destruction (Isaiah 7:8; Isaiah 23:1).
Israel—here used for Judah, having been the common name.
Verse 5
5. they have consulted—with heart, or cordially.
together—all alike.
Verse 6
6-8. tabernacles—for people (Psalms 78:67).
they—all these united with the children of Lot, or Ammonites and Moabites (compare Psalms 78:67- :).
Verse 9
9-11. Compare the similar fate of these (2 Chronicles 20:23) with that of the foes mentioned in Judges 7:22, here referred to. They destroyed one another (Judges 4:6-24; Judges 7:25). Human remains form manure (compare 2 Kings 9:37; Jeremiah 9:22).
Verse 12
12. The language of the invaders.
houses—literally, "residences," enclosures, as for flocks ( :-).
of God—as the proprietors of the land (2 Chronicles 20:11; Isaiah 14:25).
Verse 13
13. like a wheel—or, whirling of any light thing (Isaiah 17:13), as stubble or chaff (Psalms 1:4).
Verse 14
14, 15. Pursue them to an utter destruction.
Verse 16
16. that they may seek—or as Psalms 83:18, supply "men," since Psalms 83:17; Psalms 83:18 amplify the sentiment of Psalms 83:16, expressing more fully the measure of destruction, and the lesson of God's being and perfections (compare Psalms 83:16- :) taught to all men.