Commentary Critical And Explanatory On The Whole Bible

Ps 76:1-12. On Neginoth -- (See on Ps 4:1, title). This Psalm commemorates what the preceding anticipates: God's deliverance of His people by a signal interposition of power against their enemies. The occasion was probably the events narrated in 2Ki 19:35; Isa 37:1-28. (Compare Ps 46:1-11).

1, 2. These well-known terms denote God's people and Church and His intimate and glorious relations to them.

2. Salem -- (Ge 14:18) is Jerusalem.

3. brake ... the arrows -- literally, "thunderbolts" (Ps 78:48), from their rapid flight or ignition (compare Ps 18:14; Eph 6:16).

the battle -- for arms (Ho 2:18).

4. Thou -- God.

mountains of prey -- great victorious nations, as Assyria (Isa 41:15; Eze 38:11, 12; Zec 4:7).

5. slept their sleep -- died (Ps 13:3).

none ... found ... hands -- are powerless.

6. chariot and horse -- for those fighting on them (compare Ps 68:17).

7. may ... sight -- contend with Thee (De 9:4; Jos 7:12).

8, 9. God's judgment on the wicked is His people's deliverance (Ps 9:12; 10:7).

10. Man's wrath praises God by its futility before His power.

restrain -- or, "gird"; that is, Thyself, as with a sword, with which to destroy, or as an ornament to Thy praise.

11, 12. Invite homage to such a God (2Ch 32:23), who can stop the breath of kings and princes when He wills (Da 5:23).