1 A Psalm of Asaph. O God, the heathen are come into thine inheritance; thy holy temple have they defiled; they have laid Jerusalem on heaps.
2 The dead bodies of thy servants have they given [to be] meat unto the fowls of the heaven, the flesh of thy saints unto the beasts of the earth.
3 Their blood have they shed like water round about Jerusalem; and [there was] none to bury [them].
4 We are become a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and derision to them that are round about us.
5 How long, LORD? wilt thou be angry for ever? shall thy jealousy burn like fire?
6 Pour out thy wrath upon the heathen that have not known thee, and upon the kingdoms that have not called upon thy name.
7 For they have devoured Jacob, and laid waste his dwelling place.
8 O remember not against us former iniquities: let thy tender mercies speedily prevent us: for we are brought very low.
9 Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name’s sake.
10 Wherefore should the heathen say, Where [is] their God? let him be known among the heathen in our sight [by] the revenging of the blood of thy servants [which is] shed.
11 Let the sighing of the prisoner come before thee; according to the greatness of thy power preserve thou those that are appointed to die;
12 And render unto our neighbours sevenfold into their bosom their reproach, wherewith they have reproached thee, O Lord.
13 So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever: we will shew forth thy praise to all generations.
Overview of Psalm 79
Psalm 79 is a lamentation attributed to Asaph, expressing deep sorrow and anguish over the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of its people. It serves as a communal cry for help, reflecting the devastation caused by foreign invaders and the desecration of the holy city. The psalm highlights themes of grief, repentance, and a plea for divine intervention.
Structure and Literary Features
The psalm can be divided into several distinct sections, each contributing to the overall message and emotional weight of the text.
- Verses 1-4: The Situation of Despair
These verses describe the devastation of Jerusalem, emphasizing the destruction of the temple and the slaughter of the people. The imagery is vivid and heart-wrenching, highlighting the severity of the situation.
- Verses 5-7: A Call for Divine Justice
The psalmist questions how long the suffering will continue and calls for God to respond to the injustices faced by His people. This section reflects a deep yearning for divine retribution against the enemies.
- Verses 8-10: A Plea for Forgiveness and Restoration
Here, the psalmist acknowledges the sins of the people and pleads for mercy. The request for forgiveness is coupled with a desire for restoration, emphasizing the relationship between sin, punishment, and redemption.
- Verses 11-13: A Hope for Future Deliverance
The final verses express hope for God’s intervention and restoration of Israel. The psalmist concludes with a reminder of God’s glory and a commitment to praise Him, reinforcing the theme of hope amidst despair.
Thematic Analysis
Psalm 79 encapsulates several key themes that resonate throughout the text and reflect the broader context of the Hebrew Bible.
- Destruction and Mourning
The opening verses vividly depict the destruction of Jerusalem, symbolizing not just physical ruin but also spiritual desolation. The lament serves as a collective expression of grief for the loss of a sacred space.
- Divine Justice
The psalmist’s call for God to act against the oppressors highlights the belief in divine justice. There is a strong sense of urgency for God to avenge the wrongs done to His people, reflecting a deep-seated desire for righteousness.
- Repentance and Forgiveness
The acknowledgment of sin suggests a communal understanding of guilt and the need for repentance. The plea for forgiveness emphasizes the relationship between the people and God, indicating that restoration is possible through divine mercy.
- Hope and Restoration
Despite the despair, the psalm ends on a note of hope. The commitment to praise God underscores the belief that even in the darkest times, there is the possibility of redemption and renewal.
Theological Implications
Psalm 79 raises important theological questions regarding suffering, justice, and the nature of God’s relationship with His people. It invites readers to reflect on the following:
- The Nature of Suffering
The psalm illustrates the reality of communal suffering and its impact on faith. It challenges believers to grapple with the presence of evil and suffering in the world.
- God’s Justice and Mercy
The dual themes of justice and mercy are central to the psalm. It encourages readers to trust in God’s ultimate justice while also recognizing the need for repentance and humility.
- The Role of Community
The communal aspect of the lament emphasizes the importance of collective identity and shared faith. It highlights the need for solidarity in times of crisis.
Conclusion
Psalm 79 serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities of faith during times of crisis. It encapsulates the human experience of grief, the yearning for justice, and the hope for divine intervention. The psalm remains relevant as it speaks to the enduring struggles of communities facing devastation and the universal quest for restoration and peace.
