Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 124
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Read Psalms 124 in the BiblePsalms 124:1-2
The negative rhetorical questions emphasize the positive idea that the Lord was indeed on their side.
Psalms 124:1-8
This thanksgiving song describes what might happen if the Lord were not present with his people.
Psalms 124:4-5
the raging waters: The enemies could have defeated the Israelites and destroyed them if the Lord had not supported his people (compare Psalm 69:15; Jeremiah 46:8).
Psalms 124:6-8
The enemies of God's people were like lions or bears that tear prey with their teeth (see Psalm 57:4; Proverbs 28:15). The Lord shut their mouths (Daniel 6:22).
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Psalms 124:1-8
These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.