Rebuke the beasts that dwell among the reeds, the herd of bulls with the calves of the peoples. Trample underfoot those who lust after tribute; scatter the peoples who delight in war.
David composed this psalm to celebrate victories God granted him over his enemies, most likely after his triumph over the Ammonites and Syrians when the ark returned to Jerusalem. The ark's ascent to the holy mountain prefigures Christ's far more glorious ascension to heaven after He conquered His enemies and ours. Though the psalm rises to great heights of sublimity, its interpretation presents considerable difficulty at many points.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 68:1-35
Rebuke the company of spearmen; or, the beasts of the reeds, as the margin more correctly renders it. Speak to Egypt, let its growing power and jealousy be kept in order, by a word from thee. Israel remembers her old enemy, already plotting the mischief, which would break out under Jeroboam, and begs for a rebuking word from her Omnipotent Friend.
God promises to bring His people up from the depths of the sea and set them safe from danger, just as He did when He drew Israel from Egypt and from the wilderness into Canaan. What He has done before, He will do again; former mercies should kindle our faith for future ones.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 68:22-31