Bible Verse Meaning and Interpretation: Psalms 137:7

Verse: Psalms 137:7 - "Remember, O Lord, the children of Edom in the day of Jerusalem; who said, Raze it, raze it, even to the foundation thereof."

Overview of Psalms 137

Psalms 137 is a poignant expression of the sorrow of the Jewish exiles in Babylon. It reflects deep emotions of longing for their homeland and lamentation over Jerusalem's destruction. The memory of Jerusalem's beauty is contrasted with the pain of their current captivity.

Detailed Analysis and Commentary

The sentiment expressed in this verse is a call for divine justice against Edom, a historical enemy of Israel. To provide a comprehensive understanding, we synthesize insights from renowned public domain commentaries:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes the intensity of the exiles' pain and the intense desire for vengeance against Edom for their treachery during the destruction of Jerusalem. The Edomites had encouraged the Babylonians, demonstrating a profound betrayal. For Henry, this verse reveals a longing for divine retribution for past offenses.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes points out the historical context, noting that Edom was an enemy of Israel and that their actions during Jerusalem's fall exacerbated the suffering of the exiles. He analyzes the phrase "Raze it," explaining that it captures the ruthless attitude of the Edomites. The verse thus serves as both a lament and an appeal for God to remember and act upon the evil done against His people.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke addresses the nature of the plea made in this verse. He highlights the passionate appeal to God to remember the deeds of the Edomites. Clarke suggests that this call can also symbolize the broader desire for justice and the restoration of God's honor. He also comments on the emotional strategy behind invoking the memory of Edom's actions, illustrating the psychological burden carried by the captives.

Theological Themes

• Justice and Retribution:

  This verse encapsulates the theme of seeking divine justice. The exiled community believes that God must remember the betrayal they suffered, bringing justice to those who wronged them. It emphasizes a common biblical theme of God as a judge who sees and acts on behalf of His people.

• Memory and Identity:

  This verse highlights the importance of memory in Jewish identity. By calling upon God to remember, the exiles reaffirm their connection to their homeland and their collective suffering, framing their story within a larger narrative of faith and survival.

Cross References

• Obadiah 1:10-14 - A prophecy against Edom for their violence against Jacob.
• Lamentations 1:2 - Expresses misery and allows for a deeper understanding of the pain felt during exile.
• Isaiah 34:5-7 - Prophecies involving God's vengeance towards nations that oppose Israel.

Conclusion

The cry in Psalms 137:7 serves not only as a plea for remembrance and justice but also as a foundational touchpoint for understanding the emotional and spiritual landscape of the people in exile. It evokes themes of suffering, memory, and a divine yearning for justice, reflecting all that has been studied in various Bible study groups and online Bible study resources.