Psalms 67 - Printer Friendly

This psalm connects closely to the themes of psalm 66. The prior psalm is heavy with praise for God's salvation. Here, the focus is on God's provision and a general call for the entire world to worship Him.

The blessing contained in the first verse is nearly identical to words given to Moses, by God, as a blessing to Israel (Numbers 6:24–26). When the Lord's face "shines" on someone, it implies His approval and favor. That connects to the Hebrew concept of light as a metaphor for truth and goodness. In the ancient world, this was also a reference to happiness, much as in modern English we say a person's face is "beaming" with joy. Rather than reserving this for Israel, the psalmist hopes that God's renown will reach the entire world. "The peoples" refer to non-Jews: the Gentiles. This is a universal call for all humankind to praise their Creator (Psalm 67:1–3).

God's rule over the world is fair and righteous. For that reason, all the people of the world should be grateful. That God uses "equity," in this context, means that He does not show undue favoritism. Although Israel is His chosen people, the Lord applies fairness to His dealings with the entire earth. In the same way, He guides every culture. Some resist His will, others do not. But all people on earth should honor God for His goodness (Psalm 67:4–5).

References to harvests may be literal, or symbolic of spiritual impact, or both. Here, the psalmist speaks of the land producing a large harvest. This is connected to expected blessings from God. In fact, the psalmist repeats this assurance of future blessings. His hope is that all people will properly honor God (Proverbs 1:7), wherever they may be (Psalm 67:6–7).

Psalm 67:1–5 begins the song with a blessing. These words closely resemble those given by God, to Moses, with which to bless Israel (Numbers 6:24–26). Though Israel was God's chosen people, this psalm prays that the Lord's power and salvation would be seen worldwide. Rather than restricting this praise to Israel, the psalmist calls on all people, in all nations, to worship God (Revelation 7:9).

Psalm 67:6–7 closes the song with a reference to productivity. The psalmist speaks of earth—the land—producing an abundant harvest. Some interpreters see this as a double reference; it may also suggest the "harvest" of worshippers which the earth provides to the Lord. The final verse expresses assurance that God will bless His people and calls on the world to show reverence to the Lord.

The unidentified psalmist prays for God's grace and favor towards Israel. He wants the Gentile nations to know God's saving power, as well. He calls upon the entire world to rejoice and praise God because He justly guides the entire world. Once again, he calls upon everyone to praise the Lord. He states that the earth has given ample produce, and that God will bless Israel. The psalm concludes by calling on all the nations to honor and worship God.

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.