Translations
Original
Notes
Grass on a rooftop had shallow roots and would scorch easily. A crop was ignored by the harvester when the yield was low. The enemies who had sown hurt among God’s people would gain little.
The psalmist briefly reviews Israel’s history of trouble (Psalm 129:1–2) and redemption (129:3–4). He ends with curses against the enemies and blessings on the godly (Psalm 129:5–6).
These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Degrees, Song of Hallel Imprecatory Psalms Music Psalms, Book of Song of Ascents Song of Ascents, Song of Degrees
Topics
Agriculture or Farming: Operations in Mowing Houses: The Flat Roofs of Often Covered with Week Grass Mowing: General Scriptures Concerning Reaping: Corn After, Was Bound up Into Sheaves Reaping: General Scriptures Concerning Reaping: Mode of Gathering the Corn For, Alluded To The Harvest: Persons Engaged in Binders