JFB Commentary

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary

Psalms 75

Public-domain commentary by Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown.

Commentary Notes

v1

Psalms 75:1

Ps 75:1-10. Al-taschith —(See on Ps 57:1, title). In impending danger, the Psalmist, anticipating relief in view of God's righteous government, takes courage and renders praise.

1. God's name or perfections are set forth by His wondrous works.

Ps 75 1-Ps 75 10Ps 57 1
v2

Psalms 75:2

2, 3. These verses express the purpose of God to administer a just government, and in a time of anarchy that He sustains the nation. Some apply the words to the Psalmist.

receive the congregation —literally, "take a set time" (Ps 102:13; Ho 2:3), or an assembly at a set time—that is, for judging.

Ps 102 13Hos 2 3
v4

Psalms 75:4

4-8. Here the writer speaks in view of God's declaration, warning the wicked.

Lift … up the horn —to exalt power, here, of the wicked himself—that is, to be arrogant or self-elated.

v6

Psalms 75:6

6. promotion —literally, "a lifting up." God is the only right judge of merit.

v8

Psalms 75:8

8. in the hand … a cup … red —God's wrath often thus represented (compare Isa 51:17; Jer 25:15).

but the dregs —literally, "surely the dregs, they shall drain it."

Isa 51 17Jer 25 15
v9

Psalms 75:9

9, 10. Contrasted is the lot of the pious who will praise God, and, acting under His direction, will destroy the power of the wicked, and exalt that of the righteous.