Psalms120

Psalm 120 opens with the psalmist crying out to the LORD in distress, seeking deliverance from lying lips and a deceitful tongue. The psalmist questions the fate of such falsehood, envisioning sharp arrows and coals of juniper as their just recompense. A deep lament follows, expressing sorrow at dwelling among those who hate peace, specifically mentioning Mesech and Kedar.

A Cry for Deliverance

1
In my distress, I cried to the LORD. He answered me. ​
2
Deliver my soul, LORD, from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue. ​

The Fate of the Deceitful

3
What will be given to you, and what will be done more to you, you deceitful tongue?
4
Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper. ​

Lamenting Exile Among the Hostile

5
Woe is me, that I live in Meshech, that I dwell among the tents of Kedar! ​
6
My soul has had her dwelling too long with him who hates peace.
7
I am for peace, but when I speak, they are for war. ​

Study Notes for Psalms 120

Verse 1

The superscription, 'A Song of degrees' (or Songs of Ascents), identifies this as the first of 15 psalms (Pss 120–134) traditionally sung by pilgrims ascending to Jerusalem for the major annual festivals.

Verse 2

The Psalmist’s distress is rooted in verbal attacks and slander; the prayer focuses on deliverance from the destructive power of malicious and deceitful speech.

Verse 4

The imagery of 'sharp arrows' indicates swift execution of judgment, while 'coals of juniper' (*rethem*) symbolizes a fierce and lasting punishment, as this wood is known for burning intensely and retaining heat for a very long time.

Verse 5

Mesech (a northern people) and Kedar (a nomadic Arabian tribe) are used symbolically to represent dwelling among hostile, ungodly peoples, emphasizing the Psalmist’s spiritual or social alienation from true community.

Verse 7

The Psalmist declares his commitment to *shalom* (wholeness, peace, and well-being), highlighting the deep frustration of being surrounded by those whose primary inclination is aggression and conflict.

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