◄ Psalm 79 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary A Prayer for Deliverance Psalm 79 is an earnest reminder that even in our deepest despair, our cries do not fall on deaf ears. God hears us and, in His perfect timing, He will act. It encourages us to keep our faith, seek forgiveness, and continue to praise Him, no matter the circumstances. Verses 1-4 (Jerusalem in Ruins): The Psalm opens with a vivid depiction of Jerusalem's destruction. Foreign invaders have desecrated the holy temple and left the city in ruins. The bodies of the servants of God lay unburied, becoming food for birds and beasts. The people of Israel have become a reproach to their neighboring nations. Verses 5-8 (A Plea to God): Asaph implores God to end His anger against His people. He pleads for forgiveness for the sins of their ancestors, acknowledging that they are suffering from inherited iniquities. Verses 9-12 (Call for Divine Vengeance): The psalmist petitions for deliverance for the glory of God's name. He asks God to punish those nations who ask, "Where is their God?" to demonstrate His omnipotence and justice. Verses 13-14 (A Vow of Perpetual Praise): The psalm ends on a hopeful note. The people promise to be God's sheep forever, praising Him from generation to generation, once deliverance has occurred. Psalm 79, attributed to Asaph, is a poignant lament over the devastation of Jerusalem, presumably after the Babylonian invasion. It highlights the suffering of God's people under the hands of their enemies, pleading for divine retribution and salvation. The Psalm oscillates between despair and hope, concluding with a vow of perpetual praise to God once restoration occurs. It serves as a stark reminder of God's justice and the power of fervent prayer in times of desperation. Teaching Points Historical Context Psalm 79 is believed to have been written during or after the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. It reflects the deep sorrow and confusion of the Israelites as they witness the desecration of their holy city and temple. Cry for Justice The psalmist begins with a vivid description of the destruction, highlighting the desecration of the temple and the slaughter of God's people. O God, the nations have invaded Your inheritance; they have defiled Your holy temple and reduced Jerusalem to rubble (Psalm 79:1). Plea for God's Anger The psalmist calls upon God to pour out His wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge Him, emphasizing the need for divine justice. Pour out Your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge You, on the kingdoms that do not call on Your name (Psalm 79:6). Confession and Repentance The psalmist acknowledges the sins of the forefathers and seeks God's forgiveness, recognizing that their current plight is a result of past disobedience. Do not hold past iniquities against us; let Your compassion come quickly, for we are brought low (Psalm 79:8). Hope in God's Deliverance Despite the dire circumstances, the psalmist expresses hope in God's salvation and promises to praise Him. Then we Your people, the sheep of Your pasture, will thank You forever; from generation to generation we will recount Your praise (Psalm 79:13). Practical Applications Trust in God's Sovereignty In times of crisis, remember that God is in control and His justice will prevail. Trust that He sees and will act in His perfect timing. Seek Forgiveness Acknowledge personal and communal sins, and seek God's mercy and forgiveness, understanding that repentance is key to restoration. Pray for Deliverance Like the psalmist, boldly approach God with your needs, asking for His intervention and deliverance in difficult situations. Commit to Praise Regardless of circumstances, commit to praising God and sharing His goodness with future generations, reinforcing your faith and hope in Him. People 1. God The psalm begins with a plea to God, asking for His intervention and expressing the community's distress over the desecration of the holy temple and the devastation of Jerusalem. The Hebrew term used is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), which is a common designation for God in the Hebrew Bible. 2. Your people This refers to the Israelites, God's chosen people, who are suffering and lamenting the destruction brought upon them. The Hebrew term is "עַמְּךָ" (amcha), meaning "Your people." 3. Your inheritance This term is used to describe the Israelites as God's special possession or heritage. The Hebrew word is "נַחֲלָתֶךָ" (nachalatecha), indicating a deep, covenantal relationship between God and His people. 4. The nations These are the foreign nations or Gentiles who have invaded and defiled the temple and land of Israel. The Hebrew term is "גּוֹיִם" (goyim), often used to refer to non-Israelite peoples. 5. The dead bodies of Your servants This phrase refers to the Israelites who have been killed by the invading nations. The term "עֲבָדֶיךָ" (avadeka) is used for "Your servants," highlighting their devotion to God even in death. 6. Our neighbors These are the surrounding peoples who mock and deride the Israelites in their time of suffering. The Hebrew word is "שְׁכֵנֵינוּ" (shechenenu), meaning "our neighbors." 7. The reproach of those around us This phrase refers to the scorn and ridicule faced by the Israelites from the surrounding nations. The Hebrew term "חֶרְפַּת שְׁכֵנֵינוּ" (cherpat shechenenu) emphasizes the shame and dishonor experienced by the community. Places 1. Jerusalem Description Jerusalem is central to Psalm 79, as it is the city that has been invaded and defiled by foreign nations. The psalm laments the destruction and desecration of the holy city, which holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Israelites. In Hebrew, Jerusalem is "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim), often referred to as the city of peace and the spiritual heart of Israel. 2. Zion Description Zion is another name for Jerusalem, often used to emphasize its spiritual and religious importance. In Psalm 79, Zion represents the dwelling place of God and the center of worship for the Israelites. The Hebrew term "צִיּוֹן" (Tziyon) is used to denote this sacred hill and its surrounding area, highlighting its role as a symbol of God's presence and the nation's identity. Events 1. Destruction of Jerusalem The psalm begins with a vivid description of the devastation brought upon Jerusalem by foreign nations. "O God, the nations have invaded Your inheritance; they have defiled Your holy temple and reduced Jerusalem to rubble" (Psalm 79:1). The Hebrew word for "invaded" (בָּאוּ, ba'u) conveys the sense of entering forcefully or with hostility. 2. Desecration of the Temple The holy temple, a central place of worship and symbol of God's presence, has been defiled. This desecration is a profound spiritual and communal loss for the Israelites. 3. Massacre of the People The psalmist laments the slaughter of God's servants, whose bodies are left unburied. "They have given the corpses of Your servants as food to the birds of the air, the flesh of Your saints to the beasts of the earth" (Psalm 79:2). The Hebrew term for "servants" (עֲבָדֶיךָ, avadeikha) emphasizes their role as devoted followers of God. 4. Public Humiliation The Israelites are subjected to scorn and derision by their neighbors. "We have become a reproach to our neighbors, a scorn and derision to those around us" (Psalm 79:4). The Hebrew word for "reproach" (חֶרְפָּה, cherpah) indicates disgrace or shame. 5. Plea for Divine Retribution The psalmist calls upon God to pour out His wrath on the nations that have not acknowledged Him. "Pour out Your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge You, on the kingdoms that do not call on Your name" (Psalm 79:6). The Hebrew root for "pour out" (שָׁפַךְ, shafakh) suggests a complete and overwhelming outpouring. 6. Request for Forgiveness and Help The psalmist seeks God's forgiveness and intervention, appealing to His compassion and glory. "Do not hold past sins against us; let Your compassion come quickly, for we are brought low" (Psalm 79:8). The Hebrew word for "compassion" (רַחֲמִים, rachamim) is often associated with deep, tender mercy. 7. Appeal for God's Glory The psalmist asks for deliverance for the sake of God's name and glory. "Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Your name; deliver us and atone for our sins, for Your name’s sake" (Psalm 79:9). The Hebrew term for "glory" (כָּבוֹד, kavod) signifies honor and weightiness. 8. Promise of Praise The psalm concludes with a vow to praise God forever, acknowledging His eternal sovereignty. "Then we, Your people, the sheep of Your pasture, will thank You forever; from generation to generation we will recount Your praise" (Psalm 79:13). The imagery of "sheep" (צֹאן, tzon) highlights the relationship between God as shepherd and His people as His flock. Connections to Additional Scriptures Lamentations 1:1-5 Reflects the sorrow and desolation of Jerusalem, similar to Psalm 79. 2 Chronicles 36:15-21 Describes the fall of Jerusalem and the reasons for God's judgment, providing historical context for Psalm 79. Psalm 74 Another psalm of Asaph that laments the destruction of the temple and calls for God's intervention. Romans 12:19 Encourages believers to leave vengeance to God, trusting in His justice. Prayer Points Pray for God's justice and intervention in areas of personal and global injustice. Ask for forgiveness for personal and communal sins, seeking a heart of repentance. Pray for strength and faith to trust in God's sovereignty during times of crisis. Commit to praising God and sharing His faithfulness with others, even in difficult times. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the desolation described in verses 1-4 resonate with personal experiences of loss or destruction? 2. How does Asaph justify the suffering of his generation for the sins of their ancestors in verse 8? What does this say about generational responsibility? 3. Asaph asks God to help them "for the glory of your name." How does this request reconcile with our contemporary understanding of asking in prayer? 4. How does Psalm 79 reflect on God's justice and mercy? How can we apply this understanding in our lives? 5. How does the shift from lament to hope occur in the Psalm? What does it teach about the dynamics of faith? 6. How can the pleas for divine retribution in verses 9-12 be interpreted in a present-day context? Is it right to ask God for revenge? 7. If you were in a similar situation as the Israelites, how would you pray? Would it be different from Asaph's prayer? 8. How does this Psalm help us understand our relationship with God during times of suffering? 9. What is the significance of Asaph's promise in verses 13-14 to praise God forever once delivered? 10. How can we apply the lessons from Psalm 79 in our daily life, especially when facing difficult times? 11. What does Psalm 79 teach us about dealing with adversaries or enemies? 12. In what ways does Psalm 79 challenge our understanding of God's justice? 13. How does the Psalm encourage us to have hope and faith amidst trying circumstances? 14. How would you handle someone who questions God's existence or power in the face of adversity, similar to the enemies of Israel in the Psalm? 15. What steps can we take to ensure our actions today do not become a burden for future generations, as discussed in verse 8? 16. How can we praise God in the midst of our own 'ruins' or hardships, as the Israelites pledged to do? 17. What are some ways we can show our commitment to being God's 'sheep' in our present-day lives? 18. How can we draw upon this Psalm to comfort others who are going through trials and tribulations? 19. How does the plea for forgiveness in Psalm 79 help us reflect on our own need for divine mercy? 20. How does Psalm 79 reinforce the idea that prayer is not just about asking for personal needs but also about advocating for justice and divine intervention in the world's affairs? Topics 1. Destruction of Jerusalem Psalm 79 begins with a lament over the destruction of Jerusalem. The psalmist describes how the nations have invaded and defiled the holy temple, laying Jerusalem in ruins. This reflects the historical context of the Babylonian invasion and the desecration of sacred spaces. The Hebrew word used for "defiled" (טָמֵא, tame) emphasizes the impurity brought upon the holy place. 2. Desecration of the Dead The psalmist mourns the disrespect shown to the dead, whose bodies are left unburied, becoming food for birds and beasts. This desecration is a profound dishonor in Jewish culture, highlighting the depth of the nation's humiliation and suffering. 3. Divine Anger and Plea for Mercy The psalmist acknowledges God's anger, asking how long His wrath will burn against His people. There is a plea for God to pour out His wrath on the nations that do not know Him, rather than on Israel. The Hebrew word for "anger" (אַף, aph) conveys a sense of intense fury, underscoring the urgency of the plea for divine mercy. 4. Confession of Sin and Request for Forgiveness The psalmist confesses the sins of the ancestors and asks for God's compassion and forgiveness. This reflects a recognition of collective guilt and a desire for reconciliation with God. The Hebrew term for "compassion" (רַחֲמִים, rachamim) is rooted in the idea of deep, tender mercy. 5. Appeal for God's Glory and Vindication The psalmist appeals to God to act for the sake of His own glory and reputation among the nations. There is a call for God to demonstrate His power and vindicate His people, so that the nations will know that He is the true God. This reflects a concern for God's name and honor, which is a recurring theme in the Hebrew Scriptures. 6. Promise of Praise and Future Faithfulness The psalm concludes with a vow to praise God forever and to recount His praise to future generations. This commitment to worship and faithfulness, despite current suffering, underscores a deep trust in God's ultimate deliverance and justice. The Hebrew word for "praise" (תְּהִלָּה, tehillah) signifies a form of worship that is both public and communal. Themes 1. Destruction and Desecration The psalm opens with a vivid description of the devastation brought upon Jerusalem: "O God, the nations have invaded Your inheritance; they have defiled Your holy temple and reduced Jerusalem to rubble" (Psalm 79:1). The Hebrew word for "defiled" (טָמֵא, tame) emphasizes the profaning of what is sacred. 2. Suffering and Death The psalmist laments the widespread death and suffering: "They have given the corpses of Your servants as food to the birds of the air, the flesh of Your saints to the beasts of the earth" (Psalm 79:2). The term "saints" (חָסִיד, chasid) refers to the faithful ones, highlighting the tragedy of the righteous suffering. 3. Shame and Reproach The people of Israel are subjected to scorn and derision: "We have become a reproach to our neighbors, a scorn and derision to those around us" (Psalm 79:4). The Hebrew root for "reproach" (חֶרְפָּה, cherpah) conveys a deep sense of disgrace and dishonor. 4. Plea for Divine Justice The psalmist calls for God's intervention and justice: "Pour out Your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge You, on the kingdoms that do not call on Your name" (Psalm 79:6). The plea reflects a desire for God to act against those who have wronged His people. 5. Confession and Repentance There is an acknowledgment of sin and a plea for forgiveness: "Do not hold past sins against us; let Your compassion come quickly, for we are brought low" (Psalm 79:8). The Hebrew word for "compassion" (רַחֲמִים, rachamim) underscores the plea for God's merciful love. 6. Appeal for God's Glory The psalmist seeks deliverance for the sake of God's name: "Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Your name; deliver us and atone for our sins, for Your name’s sake" (Psalm 79:9). The focus is on God's reputation and the vindication of His holiness. 7. Hope for Restoration Despite the lament, there is hope for future restoration and praise: "Then we Your people, the sheep of Your pasture, will thank You forever; from generation to generation we will recount Your praise" (Psalm 79:13). The imagery of "sheep" (צֹאן, tson) reflects the relationship between God as Shepherd and His people. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions