Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 42

These psalms, like Psalms 9 and 10, form a unit with a lament and a bittersweet refrain of hope (Psalm 42:5, 11; 43:5). Many Hebrew manuscripts combine these two psalms into one.

The historical context is unclear; these psalms might represent God's people in exile, expressing loyalty to God while he punishes them for their ongoing disobedience.

The psalmist longs for the fellowship with God he had in Jerusalem (Psalm 42:4); his memories only deepen his discouragement. As the psalmist cries out to God, he remembers God's love and faithfulness (Psalm 42:8), which leads him to ask for vindication (43:1–4).

• The psalmist's deep desire for God arises from being far away from the temple as he remembers the past.

• The verb translated as "longs" appears only here and in Joel 1:20 (meaning "cry out"). In both instances, it describes extreme thirst in a dry desert (see Psalms 63:1; 143:6; see also 84:2).

The sons of Korah were members of a Levitical choir. They were chosen by David to serve as singers in the temple (see 1 Chronicles 6:22–38; 9:19–34; 2 Chronicles 20:19). Their ancestor Korah was the rebel who opposed Moses and was swallowed by the earth (Exodus 6:24; Numbers 16).

• Crying so much that tears become food shows deep sadness (Psalms 80:5; 102:9; see 6:6; 56:8; 119:136; 126:5).

• The wicked try to impose their timing on God and deny his power to intervene.

The psalmist remembers leading a large procession as part of the Levitical choir, possibly during the important holy days.

The psalmist encourages himself with questions and answers.

The psalmist feels sad, but he can still function. He remembers that the living God is his Savior. This verse appears again in Psalms 42:11 and 43:5.

• Mount Hermon is a high mountain range northeast of Israel. The source of the Jordan is by Dan at the foot of Mount Hermon.

• Mount Mizar might be a peak in the Mount Hermon range.

The raging seas, waves, and surging tides bring to mind God's anger (see Psalm 88:7).

The psalmist sees rays of hope. A life focused on God includes joyful songs and prayers for justice and vindication (Psalm 42:9–10; 43:1–4).

The psalmist brings his many doubts, discouragements, and questions directly to God.