I am for peace
The phrase "I am for peace" reflects a deep yearning and commitment to harmony and reconciliation. The Hebrew word for "peace" here is "shalom," which encompasses not just the absence of conflict but a holistic sense of well-being, completeness, and prosperity. In the historical context of ancient Israel, "shalom" was a foundational concept, deeply embedded in the social and religious fabric of the community. The psalmist's declaration of being for peace suggests a personal alignment with God's desire for His people to live in unity and mutual respect. This commitment to peace is a reflection of the divine character, as God is often described as the God of peace throughout the Scriptures. In a world filled with strife and division, the psalmist's stance is both countercultural and prophetic, calling believers to be ambassadors of peace in their own lives.

but when I speak
The conjunction "but" introduces a contrast, highlighting the tension between the psalmist's intentions and the reality he faces. The act of speaking, in the Hebrew context, is powerful and significant. Words are not merely sounds but carry weight and authority. The psalmist's speech is likely intended to promote peace, to mediate and resolve conflict. However, the response he receives is not what he hopes for. This phrase underscores the challenge of living out one's convictions in a world that may not be receptive or responsive to the message of peace. It is a reminder that the path of righteousness often involves perseverance and courage, even when faced with opposition.

they are for war
The stark contrast between the psalmist's desire for peace and the response of others is captured in the phrase "they are for war." The Hebrew word for "war" is "milchamah," which denotes not only physical conflict but also strife, contention, and hostility. This reflects the reality of human nature and the fallen world, where conflict often arises from pride, selfishness, and misunderstanding. Historically, Israel faced numerous external threats and internal divisions, making the pursuit of peace a constant struggle. The psalmist's lament is timeless, echoing the experiences of many who seek peace but encounter resistance. This phrase serves as a call to believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to peace, trusting in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty. It also encourages introspection, challenging individuals to examine their own hearts and ensure they are not contributing to discord.

(7) I am for peace.--For the pregnant, "I peace," see Note, Psalm 109:3. Both pronouns, I and they, are emphatic. No doubt these verses are intended to indicate the nature of the malicious speeches mentioned in Psalm 120:2-3. We imagine Israel in peculiarly difficult political relations under the Persians, possibly very soon after the Return, trying to keep in favour and peace with the ruling powers, but continually drawn into trouble by the jealousy and bitterness of other subject tribes. (See Introduction.)

Verse 7. - I am for peace; literally, I am peace; but the meaning is as given in the Authorized Version. But when I speak (i.e. when I speak to them of peace), they are for war; i.e. they are utterly averse to peace, and are bent on continual hostility. The general history bears out this statement. There is only one apparent exception. When the Jews returned from the Captivity and began to build the temple, the Samaritans offered to join with them (Ezra 4:2). But the Samaritan offer was, perhaps, insincere. At any rate, when it was refused, they became the most bitter opponents of the Jews.

Parallel Commentaries ...

I
אֲ‍ֽנִי־ (’ănî·šā-)
Pronoun - first person common singular
Strong's 589: I

[am in favor of] peace;
שָׁ֭לוֹם (lō·wm)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7965: Safe, well, happy, friendly, welfare, health, prosperity, peace

but when
וְכִ֣י (wə·ḵî)
Conjunctive waw | Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

I speak,
אֲדַבֵּ֑ר (’ă·ḏab·bêr)
Verb - Piel - Imperfect - first person common singular
Strong's 1696: To arrange, to speak, to subdue

they
הֵ֝֗מָּה (hêm·māh)
Pronoun - third person masculine plural
Strong's 1992: They

[want] war.
לַמִּלְחָמָֽה׃ (lam·mil·ḥā·māh)
Preposition-l, Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 4421: A battle, war


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OT Poetry: Psalm 120:7 I am for peace but when (Psalm Ps Psa.)