Psalms 74

Ps 74 The psalmist laments the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem (586 BC) with vivid imagery, questions, fresh memories, and a direct appeal for the Lord to act (74:19-23).74:1-2 In the aftermath of Jerusalem’s fall, it seemed that God had forgotten his special covenant relationship with his people.74:1 God rejected his people because their sin aroused his anger (106:34-46). • Like a tender shepherd, God cares for his people, the sheep of his pasture (Pss 23; 100:3).

74:2 The Lord chose and redeemed Israel from Egypt in the Exodus (cp. Exod 15:13). • your own special possession: This is another expression for “your people” (Pss 28:9; 78:62; 94:14; 106:40).

74:3-8 Like a guide, the psalmist points out to the Lord what took place during the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC.

74:12 my king from ages past: The psalmist acknowledges God’s power and his historical bond with Israel (5:2; 44:4; 84:3).

74:14 Leviathan: See 104:26; Job 3:8; 41:1, 12, 22, 31; Isa 27:1. Here, the creature’s multiple heads suggest a mythical monster.

74:15 springs and streams to gush forth: God provided water in the desert for his people (see 68:8-9; Exod 17:6); he dried up the Red Sea (Exod 14:21) and the Jordan River (Josh 3:17).

74:19-23 The poet urges God to act.