Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

drink . . . wine of astonishment--literally, "of staggering"--that is, made us weak (compare Psa 75:8; Isa 51:17, Isa 51:22).

Yet to God's banner they will rally, and pray that, led and sustained by His power (right hand, Psa 17:7; Psa 20:6), they may be safe.

hear me--or, "hear us."

God hath spoken in--or, "by." his holiness-- (Psa 89:35; Amo 4:2), on the pledge of His attributes (Psa 22:3; Psa 30:4). Taking courage from God's promise to give them possession (Exo 23:31; Deu 11:24) (and perhaps renewed to him by special revelation), with triumphant joy he describes the conquest as already made. Shechem, and . . . Succoth--as widely separated points, and--

Gilead . . . and Manasseh--as large districts, east and west of Jordan, represent the whole land. divide . . . and mete out--means to have entire control over. Ephraim--denotes the military (Deu 33:17); and-- Judah--(the lawgiver, Gen 49:10), the civil power. Foreign nations are then presented as subdued.

Moab--is a my washpot--the most ordinary vessel. over--or, "at" Edom--(as a slave) he casts his shoe. Philistia, triumph, &c.--or, rather, "shout." for me--acknowledges subjection (compare Psa 108:9, "over Philistia will I triumph").

He feels assured that, though once angry, God is now ready to favor His people. who will lead me-- or, who has led me, as if the work were now begun.

Wilt not thou?--or, "Is it not Thou?"

Hence he closes with a prayer for success, and an assurance of a hearing. Next: Psalms Chapter 61