Bible Commentaries

Psalm 90:1-17. Contrasting man‘s frailty with God‘s eternity, the writer mourns over it as the punishment of sin, and prays for a return of the divine favor. A Prayer [mainly such] of Moses the man of God - (Deuteronomy 33:1; Joshua 14:6); as such he wrote this (see on Psalm 18:1, title, and see on Psalm 36:1, title).

dwelling-place — home (compare Ezekiel 11:16), as a refuge (Deuteronomy 33:27).

brought forth [and] formed — both express the idea of production by birth.

to destruction — literally, “even to dust” (Genesis 3:19), which is partly quoted in the last clause.

Even were our days now a thousand years, as Adam‘s, our life would be but a moment in God‘s sight (2 Peter 3:8).

a watch — or, third part of a night (compare Exodus 14:24).

Life is like grass, which, though changing under the influence of the night‘s dew, and flourishing in the morning, is soon cut down and withereth (Psalm 103:15; 1 Peter 1:24).

For — A reason, this is the infliction of God‘s wrath.

troubled — literally, “confounded by terror” (Psalm 2:5). Death is by sin (Romans 5:12). Though “secret,” the light of God‘s countenance, as a candle, will bring sin to view (Proverbs 20:27; 1 Corinthians 4:5).

are passed — literally, “turn,” as to depart (Jeremiah 6:4).

spend — literally, “consume.”

as a tale — literally, “a thought,” or, “a sigh” (Ezekiel 2:10).

Moses‘ life was an exception (Deuteronomy 34:7).

it is … cut off — or, “driven,” as is said of the quails in using the same word (Numbers 11:31). In view of this certain and speedy end, life is full of sorrow.

The whole verse may be read as a question implying the negative, “No one knows what Thy anger can do, and what Thy wrath is, estimated by a true piety.”

This he prays we may know or understand, so as properly to number or appreciate the shortness of our days, that we may be wise.

(Compare Psalm 13:2).

let it repent — a strong figure, as in Exodus 32:12, imploring a change in His dealings.

early — promptly.

As have been our sorrows, so let our joys be great and long.

thy work — or, providential acts.

thy glory — (Psalm 8:5; Psalm 45:3), the honor accruing from Thy work of mercy to us.

let the beauty — or sum of His gracious acts, in their harmony, be illustrated in us, and favor our enterprise.