Psalm 65 Study Notes

65:1 Vows were often used in the context of prayer and were fulfilled with thank offerings (see notes at 22:25-26; 50:14-15).

65:2 All humanity is literally “all flesh” and refers to the eschatological hope of mankind as a whole trusting in the Lord and coming to him in prayer and worship (86:9; Is 2:2-4; see note at Ps 22:27-31).

65:3 The Hebrew word for atone (kpr) is difficult to define since its origin is uncertain. The two most likely options are “cover” and “cleanse.” When sin is its object (as here), it is probably another way of describing forgiveness. On other expressions for forgiveness, see note at 32:1-2.

65:4 On happy, see note at 1:1. In your courts is equivalent to house and temple, all of which represent being in the Lord’s presence. The goodness probably refers to spiritual refreshment that a person experiences in God’s presence. This is often pictured as a feast (23:5; 36:8) and may refer to a sacrificial meal.

65:5-8 The language here is reminiscent of other texts where the Lord demonstrates his power over all . . . the earth because all of it is his by right of creation (see note at 24:1-2). The connection between roar of the seas and tumult of the nations is significant since the nations are often represented by the restless and chaotic sea (see note at 2:1).

65:9-10 Visit (Hb pqd) describes God’s grace and provision, especially in times of need (“paid attention” in Ru 1:6). Since water is the sustainer of life, God’s provision of water identifies him as the source and sustainer of life.

65:11-13 Crown the year with your goodness refers to a year “adorned” with blessings. The repetition of overflow symbolizes abundance of blessing. This also relates to the image of water flowing all over the land, not as a disastrous flood but as that which brings sustenance to all living things.