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Book of Psalms - Chapter 60 - Verse 1

60:1
To the chief Musician upon Shushaneduth, Michtam of David, to teach; when he strove with Aramnaharaim and with Aramzobah, when Joab returned, and smote of Edom in the valley of salt twelve thousand. O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again.

Meaning

This verse, attributed to the chief Musician upon Shushaneduth, Michtam of David, is a plea to God for his mercy and forgiveness. It recounts a time when David was in conflict with the nations of Aramnaharaim and Aramzobah, and Joab returned victorious after defeating Edom in the valley of salt. The verse expresses the feeling of abandonment and scattering that the people of Israel experienced, and implores God to turn his attention back to them. The use of symbolic language, such as being cast off and scattered, highlights the sense of loss and despair felt by the psalmist and the people. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's mercy and guidance in times of trouble, and the faith that he will hear the prayers of his people and restore them.

Theological Overview

Psalm 60 is a lament of David when he faced opposition from both Aramnaharaim and Aramzobah, and when Joab returned from battle with Edom. David appeals to God in this psalm, expressing a sense of abandonment and dispersion. The phrase "O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again" reflects David's plea for God to come back to his people. The use of the term "chief Musician upon Shushaneduth" indicates that this psalm was intended for the chief Musician, likely to be set to music and used in worship. The term "Michtam" possibly means a golden psalm, suggesting its preciousness or significance. The mention of Joab's victory over Edom in the valley of salt serves as a historical context for David's prayer, highlighting the victories and challenges faced by the Israelites. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of turning back to God in times of distress and seeking His presence and favor.

American Standard Version

[For the Chief Musician; set to Shushan Eduth. Michtam of David, to teach; when he strove with Aram-naharaim and with Aram-zobah, and Joab returned, and smote of Edom in the Valley of Salt twelve thousand]. O God thou hast cast us off, thou hast broken us down; Thou hast been angry; oh restore us again.
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