Commentaries and Other Bible Study Helps - Prayer Tents - Prayer Tents

Psalm 8. This is a hymn of praise, enabling the Lord's people to celebrate their privileged place in the created order, which speaks of the glorious Creator. Genesis 1-2 lies behind the words here, especially in presenting mankind as the pinnacle of the creation week, as the rulers over the animal world, and as the object of God's special attention. At the same time, the mention of "foes," "enemy," and "avenger" (Ps. 8:2), as well as the covenantal name "Lord" (vv. 1, 9), show that readers cannot ignore Genesis 3 and God's plan for fallen mankind. Although the psalm is covenantal, and thus specifically for Israelite voices to sing, it nevertheless speaks of "man" in general terms, including all humanity. Israel's calling was to be the firstfruits of restored humanity; thus the Israelite worshiper could embrace his dignity and seek to live worthily of it. This points the way to understanding how Heb. 2:6-8 uses Ps. 8:4-6: Jesus, as Davidic king, is the ideal Israelite, and thus the ideal human being, in this case by being crowned with glory and honor after his suffering on behalf of mankind.

8:1-2 God's Majestic Name. The opening words (v. 1) set the theme of the psalm, which v. 9 then repeats. The majesty of God's name (his revealed character) is seen in the dignity he gives to mankind.