my soul is downcast within me
The Hebrew word for "soul" is "nephesh," which can refer to the life, self, or inner being of a person. The term "downcast" translates from the Hebrew "shachach," meaning to be bowed down or brought low. This expression captures the psalmist's profound emotional turmoil and spiritual depression. It is a vivid depiction of inner despair, yet it also implies a recognition of one's own frailty and need for divine intervention.

Therefore I will remember You
The act of remembering is crucial in the Hebrew tradition, often associated with recalling God's past deeds and faithfulness. The Hebrew word "zakar" means to remember, to call to mind, or to think on. This phrase signifies a deliberate choice to focus on God despite current feelings of despondency. It highlights the importance of memory in faith, serving as a source of hope and encouragement by recalling God's previous acts of deliverance and mercy.

from the land of Jordan
The Jordan River is a significant geographical and spiritual landmark in Israel's history. It represents a boundary and a place of transition, such as when the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land. Mentioning the "land of Jordan" evokes memories of God's miraculous works and faithfulness to His promises. It serves as a reminder of God's presence and power in the midst of life's transitions and uncertainties.

and the peaks of Hermon
Mount Hermon is a majestic mountain range in the northern part of Israel, known for its height and beauty. The mention of Hermon's peaks symbolizes grandeur and stability. In the context of the psalm, it may represent a place of refuge or a reminder of God's creation and sovereignty. The imagery of towering mountains can inspire awe and remind believers of God's greatness and the assurance of His protection.

from Mount Mizar
Mount Mizar is less well-known, and its exact location is uncertain, but it is thought to be a smaller hill or mountain near Hermon. The mention of Mizar, alongside the more prominent Hermon, suggests that God is present in both great and small places. It underscores the idea that no matter where one is—whether in a place of prominence or obscurity—God's presence is constant. This serves as a comforting reminder that God is attentive to His people, regardless of their circumstances.

Therefore will I.--Better, therefore do I remember thee. (Comp. Jonah 2:7.)

From the land of Jordan--i.e., the uplands of the north-east, where the river rises. The poet has not vet passed quite into the land of exile, the country beyond Jordan, but already he is on its borders, and as his sad eyes turn again and again towards the loved country he is leaving, its sacred summits begin to disappear, while ever nearer and higher rise the snow-clad peaks of Hermon.

Hermonites.--Rather, of the Hermons, i.e., either collectively for the whole range (as generally of mountains, the Balkans, etc.) or with reference to the appearance of the mountain as a ridge with a conspicuous peak at either end. (See Thomson, Land and Book, p. 177.) In reality, however, the group known especially as Hermon has three summits, situated, like the angles of a triangle, a quarter of a mile from each other, and of almost equal elevation. (See Smith's Bible Dict., "Hermon." Comp. Our Work in Palestine, p. 246.)

The hill Mizar.--Marg., the little hill. So LXX. and Vulg., a monte modico. (Comp. the play on the name Zoar in Genesis 19:20.) Hence some think the poet is contrasting Hermon with Zion. In such a case, however, the custom of Hebrew poetry was to exalt Zion, and not depreciate the higher mountains, and it is very natural to suppose that some lower ridge or pass, over which the exile may be supposed wending his sad way, was actually called "the little," or "the less." . . .