Restore our fortunes again, Yahweh, like the streams in the Negev.
Turn again our captivity, O Lord. Remembering the former joy of a past rescue they cry to Jehovah for a repetition of it. When we pray for the turning of our captivity, it is wise to recall former instances thereof: nothing strengthens faith more effectually than the memory of a previous experience.
Turn again our captivity, O Lord,.... This prayer for the return of the captivity shows that it was not as yet: though some think that this is a petition of those that were returned from captivity, for those of their brethren that stayed behind; who, enjoying the sweets of their liberty, pray for their brethren to come and share with them, that so the mercy and blessing might be completed.
The work begun is not yet completed; those who have returned are but a vanguard of the whole nation. The land yearns for its exiles as the parched Negeb yearns for winter rains. Those already home sow with tears because the ground is so parched; but this fearful sowing will be followed by joyful harvest.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 126:4-6