Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · Psalms Kapitel 83

Ps 83:1-18.

Of Asaph--(See on

Ps 74:1,

title). The historical occasion is probably that of

2Ch 20:1, 2

(compare

Ps 47:1-9; 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.

1. God addressed as indifferent (compare

Ps 35:22; 39:12).

be not still--literally, "not quiet," as opposed to action.

2. thine enemies--as well as ours

(Ps 74:23; Isa 37:23).

3. hidden ones--whom God specially protects

(Ps 27:5; 91:1).

4. from being a nation--utter destruction

(Isa 7:8; 23:1).

Israel--here used for Judah, having been the common name.

5. they have consulted--with heart, or cordially.

together--all alike.

6-8. tabernacles--for people

(Ps 78:67).

they--all these united with the children of Lot, or Ammonites and Moabites (compare

2Ch 20:1).

9-11. Compare the similar fate of these

(2Ch 20:23)

with that of the foes mentioned in

Jud 7:22,

here referred to. They destroyed one another

(Jud 4:6-24; 7:25).

Human remains form manure (compare

2Ki 9:37; Jer 9:22).

12. The language of the invaders.

houses--literally, "residences," enclosures, as for flocks

(Ps 65:12).

of God--as the proprietors of the land

(2Ch 20:11; Isa 14:25).

13. like a wheel--or, whirling of any light thing

(Isa 17:13),

as stubble or chaff

(Ps 1:4).

14, 15. Pursue them to an utter destruction.

16. that they may seek--or as

Ps 83:18,

supply "men," since

Ps 83:17, 18

amplify the sentiment of

Ps 83:16,

expressing more fully the measure of destruction, and the lesson of God's being and perfections (compare

2Ch 20:29)

taught to all men.