Bible Commentaries
Psalms 124

Everett's Study Notes on the Holy ScripturesEverett's Study Notes

Verses 1-8

Psalms 124:0

Psalms 124:1 (A Song of degrees of David.) If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, now may Israel say;

Psalms 124:1 Word Study on “degrees” - Strong says the Hebrew word “ma’alah” ( מַעֲלָה ) (H4609) literally means, “elevations,” and in book of Psalms it means, “a climatic progression.” Strong says this word is derived from the Hebrew verb “‘alah” ( עָלָה ) (H5927), which means “to ascend.” This noun occurs 45 times in the Old Testament Scriptures and is often translated “steps,” as in 1 Kings 10:19. In 2 Kings 20:9-11 “ma’alah” ( מַעֲלָה ) is translated “degrees,” referring to the ten steps the shadow regressed on the king’s sundial.

Psalms 124:2 If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us:

Bibliographical Information
Everett, Gary H. "Commentary on Psalms 124". Everett's Study Notes on the Holy Scriptures. https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/ghe/psalms-124.html. 2013.