Psalms60

Psalms 60 begins with a lament over God's apparent rejection and the nation's suffering, describing the land as broken and the people drinking "wine of astonishment." The psalmist then expresses hope, recalling God's promise of dominion over various territories, signifying future restoration. The psalm concludes with a renewed plea for divine help, asserting that through God alone, victory over enemies will be achieved.

Lament and Plea for Restoration

1
For the leader. Set to "Lily of Testimony."A mikhtam of David for teaching about when he fought with Aram-Naharayim and with Aram-Tzovah, and Yo'av returned and killed 12,000 from Edom in the Salt Valley: God, you rejected us; you crushed us; you were angry; but now revive us. ​
2
You made the land shake, split it apart; now repair the rifts, for it is collapsing. ​
3
You made your people suffer hard times, had us drink a wine that made us stagger.
4
To those who fear you because of the truth you gave a banner to rally around, (Selah) ​
5
so that those you love could be rescued; so save with your right hand, and answer us!

The Oracle of God's Sovereignty

6
God in his holiness spoke, and I took joy [in his promise]: "I will divide Sh'khem and determine the shares in the Sukkot Valley. ​
7
Gil'ad is mine and M'nasheh mine, Efrayim my helmet, Y'hudah my scepter. ​
8
Mo'av is my washpot; on Edom I throw my shoe; P'leshet, be crushed because of me!" ​

A Renewed Petition for Victory

9
Who will bring me into the fortified city? Who will lead me to Edom? ​
10
God, have you rejected us? You don't go out with our armies, God.
11
Help us against our enemy, for human help is worthless.
12
With God's help we will fight valiantly, for he will trample our enemies. ​

Study Notes for Psalms 60

Verse 1

The superscription links this psalm to David's campaigns against Aram and Edom (c. 1000 BC), suggesting it was composed during a moment of national vulnerability or temporary setback, despite eventual victory. The opening lament expresses the feeling of abandonment and divine displeasure.

Verse 2

The shaking earth metaphorically describes the national instability and confusion resulting from military defeat or internal strife. The plea to 'heal the breaches' is a petition for national restoration and stability.

Verse 4

The 'banner' (or standard) is a rallying point, symbolizing divine protection and a public declaration of allegiance to God. It is given to those who fear God so that His truth and covenant faithfulness may be openly displayed.

Verse 6

This verse marks a dramatic shift, transitioning from lament to confidence based on a divine oracle. God asserts his sovereign right to divide and possess the land, including the key territories of Shechem (West) and Succoth (East of Jordan).

Verse 7

God lists the key tribes, affirming control over the entire promised land. Ephraim represents military strength, while Judah holds the political and judicial authority ('lawgiver'), confirming the Davidic dynasty's legitimacy.

Verse 8

The surrounding enemy nations are depicted as utterly subjugated. Moab is reduced to a 'washpot' (a vessel for humble chores), while casting the shoe over Edom symbolizes taking possession of the territory and treating it with contempt.

Verse 9

The psalmist, having received the oracle, recognizes that the human task of conquering the heavily fortified cities of Edom ('the strong city') is impossible without God's direct intervention.

Verse 12

The psalm concludes with a triumphant confession of faith, contrasting the futility of human effort (v. 11) with the certainty of victory achieved 'through God.' He is the one who grants valor and subdues the enemies.

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