What happensPermalink
The psalmist combines lament and celebration, recalling Israel’s long history of affliction while rejoicing that God has broken the bonds of their oppression. He prays that the wicked will wither like grass and their efforts come to nothing.
Why it mattersPermalink
As a “Song of Ascent” (see Psalm 120), this psalm reminds pilgrims not to take their privileges for granted; for much of Israel’s history, there was no temple to visit nor safety in which to travel. The prayer that enemies will wither like grass (v.6) reflects a common biblical theme (Psalm 37:1–2, Isaiah 37:27), while the image of God cutting the cords of the wicked (v.4) recalls His power to break the yoke of oppression (Leviticus 26:13, Isaiah 10:27).
Key versePermalink
The Lord is righteous; he has cut the cords of the wicked.