Psalms 137:7 KJV

Remember, O LORD, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem; who said, Rase it, rase it, even to the foundation thereof.

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Psalms 137:7 Bible Commentary

Psalms 137:7 - A Commentary

Verse: "Remember, O LORD, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem; who said, Rase it, rase it, even to the foundation thereof."

Contextual Background

This verse belongs to a poignant psalm that reflects the deep sorrow of the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. It expresses both a longing for Jerusalem and a lament for the destruction of their beloved city. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, played a treacherous role in the fall of Jerusalem, further exacerbating the pain of the exiled Jews.

Historical Insights

The Edomites, historically, were antagonistic towards Israel, and their callous encouragement of Jerusalem's downfall during the Babylonian conquest stands as a testament to their enmity. This particular plea to God emphasizes the desire for divine retribution against those who celebrate Israel’s calamity.

Thematic Exegesis

  • Call for Divine Justice: This verse is a poignant plea for God to remember the atrocities committed against His people. The term "remember" signifies not merely recollection but an invocation of God’s covenantal faithfulness.
  • The Nature of Enmity: The mention of the Edomites highlights human hostility towards one another, especially among nations with common ancestry. It illustrates how familial bonds can be strained by hatred and betrayal.
  • Lamentation and Hope: The lament expressed in Psalms 137 is not solely an expression of despair; it carries an underlying thread of hope in God's eventual justice and restoration.

Insights from Commentary

Matthew Henry

Henry notes that the psalmist's call to remember the Edomites serves a dual purpose – it is both an accusation of their wickedness and a heartfelt supplication for God to hold them accountable. This reflects the broader theological theme that God’s justice must prevail, especially against those who mock and persecute His chosen people.

Albert Barnes

Barnes emphasizes the emotional weight of this verse, highlighting that the psalmist’s lament reflects profound grief not only over the physical destruction of Jerusalem but also over the spiritual and cultural loss. He points out that the Edomites’ taunts are a reminder of the vulnerability of God’s people in times of distress.

Adam Clarke

Clarke elaborates on the Edomites’ historical role as adversaries to Israel. He interprets the phrase "Rase it, rase it" as a fierce embodiment of hatred and betrayal, calling for complete destruction. His commentary reminds readers that such enmity stirs up a desire for divine correction and retribution.

Theological Reflections

This specific petition within the psalm emphasizes the concept of justice from a theological perspective. It highlights God's sovereignty in addressing injustices inflicted upon His people. For pastors and theologians, this verse serves as a reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the profound desire for justice in times of suffering.

Moreover, this lament can be applied in contemporary contexts where communities face persecution or oppression. It challenges believers today to seek God’s justice while also calling for the redemption of their oppressors, reflecting the tension between justice and mercy in the biblical narrative.

Practical Applications

  • Understanding Pain: Pastors can use this commentary to help congregations articulate their grief and pain, reminding them that it is acceptable to bring their sorrows before God.
  • Calling for Justice: The theme invites believers to actively seek justice in a world rife with injustice, encouraging advocacy for the oppressed and marginalized.
  • Fostering Forgiveness: While the desire for God's judgment on enemies is evident, integrating a message of forgiveness can reflect Jesus’ teaching on loving one's enemies, providing a holistic view of justice enveloped in grace.

Conclusion

Psalms 137:7 serves as both a cry of despair and a hopeful plea for divine justice. The insights gathered from esteemed commentators demonstrate the depth of sorrow experienced by the Israelites while also highlighting the theological implications of seeking justice in a fractured world. For modern readers, this ancient text enriches our understanding of God’s character, urging us to find solace in His ultimate sovereignty and unwavering justice.