Psalms 79:11 - Meaning and Interpretation

Verse: "Let the sighing of the prisoner come before thee; according to the greatness of thy power preserve thou those that are appointed to die."

Context and Overview

The context of Psalms 79 reflects a time of great distress for Israel. The psalmist calls upon God to take action against the enemies who have devastated Jerusalem. In verse 11, a specific plea is made for the prisoners, urging God to hear their cries and to deliver them according to His might.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the significance of the cry of the oppressed, which should draw God's attention. The "prisoner" refers to those in captivity, illustrating a broader theme of God's justice and mercy. The psalmist not only seeks a response from God but also appeals to His greatness, underlining the need for divine intervention in desperate situations.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes points out the use of "sighing" as an expression of deep anguish. The verse seeks acknowledgment of the suffering endured by prisoners, implying a desire for liberation and hope. The phrase "according to the greatness of thy power" invokes God's immeasurable strength to not only save these prisoners but to sustain their spirits in dire circumstances.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke interprets the phrase as a desperate plea for deliverance. He reflects on the historical context where many Israelites were taken captive and highlights their human struggle. This verse serves as a poignant reminder of the plight of the suffering, reinforcing faith in God's ability to rescue and preserve His people in their darkest hours.

Bible Cross-References

This verse connects to several other Biblical texts that highlight themes of suffering, imprisonment, and God's deliverance:

• Psalm 102:20: "To hear the groaning of the prisoner; to set free those who were doomed to die."
• Isaiah 42:7: "To open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness."
• Jeremiah 39:15-18: This passage illustrates God's promise to protect and deliver those who are faithful even in captivity.
• Lamentations 3:34-36: These verses address God's justice and His concern for the oppressed.
• Matthew 25:36: "I was in prison, and you came to me," indicating that caring for the imprisoned aligns with Christian calling.
• Acts 16:25-26: The dramatic account of Paul and Silas in prison, showing God’s miraculous power to deliver.
• Hebrews 13:3: "Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them," stressing the importance of empathy and action towards the imprisoned.
• 2 Corinthians 1:9: "Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death, but that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead."
• Galatians 5:1: "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."
• Romans 8:28: "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good..." offering hope in despairing times.

Thematic Connections

The themes in Psalms 79:11 resonate across Scripture, illustrating God’s compassion for those in distress. The act of "sighing" signifies deeper cries for help, which appear throughout the Psalms and reflect the struggles experienced by God's people. This verse invites readers to reflect on their understanding of justice and mercy as depicted in the Bible.

Applying the Insights

For those studying the Bible, there are tools for cross-referencing and finding connections between scriptures. Utilizing a Bible concordance and Bible cross-reference guide can enhance understanding:

• Explore how to find cross-references in the Bible to deepen your study.
• Identify connections between Old and New Testament verses that speak about deliverance and mercy.
• Compare themes in the Psalms with teachings found in the New Testament, recognizing how the cry for help is answered through Christ.
• Utilize comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials for sermon preparation or personal reflection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Psalms 79:11 serves as a powerful reminder of God's attentiveness to His people, especially in times of trial. By drawing upon the insights from various commentators and recognizing the connections within Scripture, we can find comfort and encouragement in our faith journey, knowing that God hears our sighs and is capable of preservation and deliverance according to His great power.