Verses 1-18

In LXX 114, 115 are one Ps., while 116 is divided into two. Apparently Psalms 115 was written to be sung antiphonally: cp. the responses in Psalms 115:9-10, Psalms 115:11—the first eight and the last three verses to be sung by the congregation. Probably it is a very late Ps. The writer proclaims the vanity of idols, and ascribes all help and blessing to Jehovah alone.

1. Israel is reviled by idolatrous foreigners, and appeals to God to vindicate His honour.

3. God is the God of heaven, therefore He can save His people.

4. This the idols cannot do.

9. A Levite sings, 'O Israel, trust thou in the Lord.' The choir respond, 'He is their help and their shield': so 10, 11.

12-15. is sung by a different person.

16. 'The heavens are the heavens of Jehovah,' etc.: His peculiar dwelling as opposed to the earth, which is the habitation of men.

17. Silence] i.e. Sheol, where there is no communion with God.