Psalms 80:1 - Exposition

Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel. The title, "Shepherd of Israel," is a new one; but it follows naturally from the metaphor, so often employed ( Psalms 74:1 ; Psalms 77:20 ; Psalms 78:52 ; Psalms 79:13 ), of Israel being God's "flock." Thou that leadest Joseph like a flock. "Thou that leddest " (Cheyne). The mention of "Joseph" shows at once that the thoughts of the psalmist are fixed on the northern kingdom. Thou that dwellest between the cherubims. The two cherubim that overshadowed the mercy seat seem to be meant. Shine forth; i.e. "show thyself—manifest thy might" (comp. Psalms 50:2 ).