Psalms 74:21

"Honor your covenant, for haunts of violence fill the dark places of the earth."

Key Reflection

In the context of Psalms 74:21, the psalmist is addressing a time when violence and chaos were rampant, particularly in the land of Judah. The phrase "haunts of violence fill the dark places of the earth" paints a vivid picture of lawlessness and oppression that had spread throughout society, affecting even hidden corners. The psalmist urges God to honor His covenant with Israel, likely expecting divine intervention to address these injustices and restore order, emphasizing the importance of keeping sacred promises in the face of widespread wickedness.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

O let not the oppressed return ashamed -Ashamed by being disappointed, as if they had trusted in that which had no claims to confidence. Compare the notes atJob 6:20. The word rendered “oppressed,” means “trodden down, crushed, broken, afflicted.” It refers to the people as attacked by foreign armies, or as crushed by those who had gained power over them. The word “return” refers to their coining back from God - from the throne of mercy. Let them not come back from thee with no assurance of thy favor; with no evidence that their prayers have been heard; let them not come back, subject to the reproach that they had made their appeal to thee in vain.

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