What does Psalm chapter 68 mean?
This psalm repeats themes seen in psalms 66 and 67 about worldwide praise for the Lord God. This psalm uses especially vivid imagery to depict God coming to Zion—meaning Jerusalem—to establish His presence. The psalm is labeled "of David," though this might be a reference to style, and not a suggestion that David personally wrote it. The song's depictions of victory might be a summary of David's successful career. Another possible inspiration is when David conquered the Jebusites and established Jerusalem as Israel's capital (2 Samuel 5). Yet another is that this psalm commemorates when David brought the ark of the covenant to Zion (2 Samuel 6).The opening lines of this psalm rephrase a rallying cry Moses used when moving the ark of the covenant (Numbers 10:35). God is depicted as invincible, brushing aside enemies like smoke, and melting them like wax. The psalm also contrasts those who hate and reject the Lord with the people who follow Him into righteousness. God is to be praised. Among the motives for worship are His care for the disadvantaged and rejection of the wicked. This opening passage hints at the Lord's provision for Israel during their time in the wilderness (Psalm 68:1–6).
When Israel wandered in a desert wilderness (Numbers 14:30–35), God was still protecting them. Though the nation was severely tested, God made good on His guarantee to bring them into the Promised Land (Joshua 3:14–17). Israel's rise under the Lord's guidance is imagined as a dove covered in precious metals taking flight. This passage also refers to Bashan (Numbers 21:33–35), where the Lord provided Israel with victory against an enemy. Rather than more exotic places such as Bashan, God has chosen Zion for His presence (Psalm 68:7–18).
Intense imagery continues with praise to God for His past and future salvation. Some references may refer to the wilderness experience, such as mention of the sea (Exodus 14:21–22) and Bashan (Numbers 14:30–35). The "hairy crown" might refer to luxurious, long hair—perhaps a reference to a particular enemy, or a general comment about kings who oppose God. Despite trials, the psalmist describes a parade into the sanctuary. This is filled with music, worship, and representatives of the tribes of Israel (Psalm 68:19–27).
The psalm ends with another appeal for the Lord to be worshipped across the world. The language here may be prophetic: looking ahead to when the Messiah will directly rule the world. God is described as "awesome:" a term which originally meant something astounding or overwhelming. Mentions of beasts and bulls may be symbolic of certain enemy nations. In the end, God will rule from His sanctuary and the entire world will come to pay Him tribute (Psalm 68:28–35).