Introduction
Three divisions complete the formal arrangement of this psalm. The first is the introduction, consisting of four lines, (Psalms 95:1-2,) and is an earnest invitation to praise Jehovah; the second, also of ten lines, (Psalms 95:3-7,) extolls the greatness of God, and his tender relations to his people; the third, also of ten lines, (Psalms 95:8-11,) is an earnest warning, grounded on the sad memories of the example of their forefathers, not to tempt God by unbelief.
There is no external intimation of the occasion upon which it was written, and nothing to indicate that it belongs to the historic psalms; but the general spirit and imagery clearly point to the social-spiritual sphere. The strain is exceedingly joyful, and devotionally triumphant and beautiful, and belongs to some occasion of exultant gladness. The strong predominance of reminiscences of the wilderness life of Israel, and of that supremacy which the name of Jehovah acquired among the nations by the miracles of Egypt and the desert, give probability to the opinion of those who assign it to the occasion of the annual feast of tabernacles, the law for which is recorded Leviticus 23:34-43
Be the first to react on this!
