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.
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Lament and Plea for Restoration

1
To the chief Musician upon Shushaneduth, Michtam of David, to teach; when he strove with Aramnaharaim and with Aramzobah, when Joab returned, and smote of Edom in the valley of salt twelve thousand. O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again. ​
2
Thou hast made the earth to tremble; thou hast broken it: heal the breaches thereof; for it shaketh. ​
3
Thou hast shewed thy people hard things: thou hast made us to drink the wine of astonishment.
4
Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah. ​
5
That thy beloved may be delivered; save with thy right hand, and hear me.

The Oracle of God's Sovereignty

6
God hath spoken in his holiness; I will rejoice, I will divide Shechem, and mete out the valley of Succoth. ​
7
Gilead is mine, and Manasseh is mine; Ephraim also is the strength of mine head; Judah is my lawgiver; ​
8
Moab is my washpot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe: Philistia, triumph thou because of me. ​

A Renewed Petition for Victory

9
Who will bring me into the strong city? who will lead me into Edom? ​
10
Wilt not thou, O God, which hadst cast us off? and thou, O God, which didst not go out with our armies?
11
Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man.
12
Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down 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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