Psalm 42:2

2 (41-3) My soul hath thirsted after the strong living God; when shall I come and appear before the face of God?

Psalm 42:2 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 42:2

My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God
Who is so called, in opposition to the idols of the Gentiles, which were lifeless statues; and who is the author, giver, and maintainer of natural life; and who has promised and provided eternal life in his Son; and is himself the fountain of life, and the fountain of living waters, and a place of broad rivers and streams: particularly his lovingkindness, which is better than life, is a pure river of water of life, the streams where make glad the saints; and hence it is that the psalmist thirsted after God, and the discoveries of his love: saying,

when shall I come and appear before God?
meaning, not in heaven, as desiring the beatific vision; but in the tabernacle, where were the worship of God, and the ark, the symbol of the divine Presence, and where the Israelites appeared before him, even in Zion; see ( Psalms 84:7 ) .

Psalm 42:2 In-Context

1 (41-1) <Unto the end, understanding for the sons of Core.> (41-2) As the hart panteth after the fountains of water; so my soul panteth after thee, O God.

2 (41-3) My soul hath thirsted after the strong living God; when shall I come and appear before the face of God?

3 (41-4) My tears have been my bread day and night, whilst it is said to me daily: Where is thy God?

4 (41-5) These things I remembered, and poured out my soul in me: for I shall go over into the place of the wonderful tabernacle, even to the house of God: With the voice of joy and praise; the noise of one feasting.

5 (41-6) Why art thou sad, O my soul? and why dost thou trouble me? Hope in God, for I will still give praise to him: the salvation of my countenance,