Psalms 118:1-7

1 O give thanks to the LORD; for [he is] good: because his mercy [endureth] for ever.
2 Let Israel now say, that his mercy [endureth] for ever.
3 Let the house of Aaron now say, that his mercy [endureth] for ever.
4 Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy [endureth] for ever.
5 I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, [and set me] in a large place.
6 The LORD [is] on my side; I will not fear: what can man do to me?
7 The LORD taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see [my desire] upon them that hate me.

Psalms 118:1-7 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PSALM 118

Kimchi says their Rabbins are divided about this psalm. Some understand it of David; others of the Messiah: but, with us Christians, there ought to be no doubt of its belonging to the Messiah; since our Lord has quoted a passage out of it, and applied it to himself, Ps 118:22,23; see Mt 21:42; and so has the Apostle Peter, Ac 4:11. Nor did the Jews of those times object thereunto, which doubtless they would have done, had the psalm respected any other but the Messiah; yea, the common people that attended Christ when he entered into Jerusalem, and the children in the temple, took their "hosanna" from hence, Ps 118:26; see Mt 21:9,15. It is generally thought to be written by David, after he was established in the kingdom, and had brought the ark of the Lord into the city. It concludes the great "Hallel", or hymn sung at the Jewish festivals; particularly at the feasts of tabernacle and the passover.

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