Psalms 147

Psalms 147:1-20

CXLVII. The LXX, perhaps rightly, divides the Ps. into two, Psalms 147:1-11 and Psalms 147:12-20. Psalms 147:1-11. An invitation to praise Yahweh for His almighty power and His kindness to Israel. Observe how the two thoughts are intertwined. After Psalms 147:8 c the LXX has, “and herbage for the service of men.” In Psalms 147:10 “the legs of a man” is curious. Swift running is a characteristic of the Homeric heroes, but the emendation, “armour of a man,” is tempting. Psalms 147:12-20. The thought of Psa 147:1-11 recurs, here addressed to Jerusalem and specially to Zion. In Psalms 147:17 ice is said to be sent forth in small fragments. Perhaps the Psalmist was thinking of hail.