Book of Psalms - Chapter 79 - Verse 1

Psalm 79:1-2 is a cry of distress and anguish from Asaph, a Levite who was involved in worship at the tabernacle. He is lamenting the desecration of Jerusalem by the invasion of foreign nations. Asaph is deeply troubled by the fact that the enemies of God have been able to enter into the holy city and defile the temple, which was meant to be the dwelling place of God on earth. The phrase "thy holy temple have they defiled" emphasizes the violation of the sacred space and the disrespect shown towards God. The destruction and desolation described in the verse show the consequences of sin and disobedience, as well as the pain and suffering that result from turning away from God. Asaph's plea for divine intervention reflects a desire for God to restore His people and His sanctuary, demonstrating the importance of seeking God's protection and mercy in times of trouble.

In this verse from Psalm 79, Asaph laments the invasion of Jerusalem by foreign nations. The term "heathen" refers to the non-believers who have come into God's inheritance, which represents His chosen people and the land He has promised them. The defilement of God's holy temple symbolizes the desecration of the sacred and the profaning of His presence among His people. The laying of Jerusalem on heaps signifies the destruction and ruin brought upon the city by the enemy forces. This verse highlights the spiritual and physical consequences of straying from God's will and the importance of remaining faithful to Him to avoid the desecration of His holy places and the destruction of His people.