Psalm 129:8

The Cords of the Wicked · Psalm 129:1–8
Read Psalm 129

Translations

Modern
May none who pass by say to them, “The blessing of the LORD be on you; we bless you in the name of the LORD.”
Traditional
Neither do they which go by say, The blessing of the Lord be upon you: we bless you in the name of the Lord.
Literal
And neither let those passing by say, “The blessing of YHWH be upon you; we bless you in the name of YHWH!”
Latin
Et non dixerunt qui præteribant: Benedictio Domini super vos. Benediximus vobis in nomine Domini.

Original

Hebrew
English
May none who pass by say to them, “The blessing of the LORD be on you; we bless you in the name of the LORD.”

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.

Theme notes and profiles

Praise Psalms Zion

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

Salutations were Given by all Passers-By Salutations: Expressions Used as The Blessing of the Lord be Upon You, we Bless You in The