A song of ascents.
This phrase indicates that Psalm 120 is part of the Songs of Ascents, a collection of Psalms (120-134) traditionally sung by Hebrew pilgrims as they ascended to Jerusalem for the three major feasts: Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. The term "ascents" reflects both the physical journey to the elevated city of Jerusalem and a spiritual ascent towards God. The pilgrimage symbolizes the believer's journey towards spiritual maturity and deeper communion with God. Historically, these songs were likely used during the Second Temple period, and their themes often reflect the challenges and hopes of the returning exiles.

In my distress
The psalmist begins by acknowledging a state of distress, a common theme in the Psalms where the writer often finds themselves in trouble or facing adversaries. This distress could be personal, communal, or national, reflecting the struggles of the Israelites throughout their history, such as oppression by foreign nations or internal strife. The term "distress" evokes the broader biblical narrative of God's people crying out for deliverance, reminiscent of the Israelites' cries in Egypt (Exodus 3:7).

I cried to the LORD,
The act of crying out to the LORD signifies a deep, earnest prayer, a reliance on God as the ultimate source of help and deliverance. This reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where God is seen as a protector and deliverer. The psalmist's cry is an act of faith, trusting in God's willingness and ability to respond. This phrase connects to other biblical instances where individuals or the nation cry out to God, such as Hannah's prayer for a child (1 Samuel 1:10) or the Israelites' plea for deliverance from their enemies (Judges 3:9).

and He answered me.
The assurance that God answers prayer is a central tenet of faith, demonstrating His faithfulness and responsiveness to His people. This response is not always immediate or in the expected manner, but it is certain. The phrase underscores the personal relationship between the psalmist and God, highlighting God's attentiveness and care. This assurance is echoed throughout Scripture, such as in Jeremiah 33:3, where God promises to answer those who call on Him. It also prefigures the New Testament promise of answered prayer through Jesus Christ (John 14:13-14), who is the ultimate mediator between God and humanity.

Deliver my soul, O LORD
This phrase is a plea for divine intervention and protection. The psalmist acknowledges the Lord as the ultimate source of deliverance, reflecting a deep trust in God's power and sovereignty. In the biblical context, the soul often represents the entire being, indicating a profound need for rescue. This plea echoes other scriptures where individuals seek God's deliverance, such as in Psalm 34:17 and Psalm 40:13. The use of "O LORD" signifies a personal relationship with God, invoking the covenant name Yahweh, which emphasizes God's faithfulness to His people.

from lying lips
The psalmist seeks protection from falsehood and slander, which were common issues in ancient times, just as they are today. Lying lips can cause significant harm, leading to social and spiritual consequences. In the cultural context of the Bible, a person's reputation was crucial, and false accusations could lead to severe repercussions. This phrase connects with other scriptures that condemn deceit, such as Proverbs 6:16-19, which lists a lying tongue among the things the Lord detests. The plea for deliverance from lying lips underscores the importance of truth and integrity in the life of a believer.

and a deceitful tongue
This phrase highlights the destructive power of deceitful speech. The tongue, though small, can cause great harm, as noted in James 3:5-6, where it is compared to a fire. In the historical context, deceitful speech could lead to broken relationships, community discord, and even legal troubles. The psalmist's request for deliverance from a deceitful tongue reflects a desire for justice and righteousness. This plea can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is the embodiment of truth (John 14:6) and who faced false accusations and deceit during His earthly ministry. The psalmist's cry for help is a reminder of the believer's reliance on God to overcome the challenges posed by dishonesty and falsehood.

What will He do to you
This phrase raises a rhetorical question, emphasizing the certainty of divine justice. In the context of the Psalms, God is often portrayed as the righteous judge who will address wrongdoing. The psalmist is likely referring to God's response to deceit and falsehood, which are condemned throughout Scripture (Proverbs 6:16-19). The question implies that there will be consequences for deceit, aligning with the biblical principle of reaping what one sows (Galatians 6:7).

and what will be added to you
This part of the verse suggests that there will be additional consequences or punishments for deceit. In biblical times, the concept of recompense was well understood, where actions, especially sinful ones, would lead to divine retribution. The idea of something being "added" could also imply cumulative judgment, as seen in the warnings against persistent sin in the Old Testament (Leviticus 26:18-21).

O deceitful tongue?
The deceitful tongue is a metaphor for those who spread lies and falsehoods. In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, truthfulness was a highly valued virtue, and deceit was seen as a serious offense against both God and community (Exodus 20:16). The tongue, as a symbol of speech, is frequently addressed in Scripture, with James 3:5-8 highlighting its potential for both good and evil. This phrase underscores the moral and spiritual danger of deceit, which is contrary to the nature of God, who is truth (John 14:6).

Sharp arrows will come from the warrior
This phrase evokes imagery of warfare and judgment. In biblical times, arrows were a common weapon used by warriors, symbolizing precision and the ability to strike from a distance. The "warrior" here can be seen as a metaphor for divine judgment or retribution. In the context of Psalm 120, which is a song of ascents, the psalmist is expressing distress over deceitful tongues and lies. The sharp arrows represent the consequences or divine justice that will befall those who engage in falsehood. This imagery is consistent with other biblical passages where God is depicted as a warrior (Exodus 15:3) and where His judgment is likened to arrows (Psalm 7:13).

with burning coals of the broom tree!
The broom tree, known for its intense heat when burned, symbolizes thorough and consuming judgment. In the arid regions of the Near East, broom trees were used for fuel because they produced long-lasting and intense heat. This imagery suggests a punishment that is not only precise, like the arrows, but also consuming and purifying. The burning coals can be seen as a metaphor for the purifying fire of God's judgment, which is echoed in other scriptures such as Isaiah 6:6-7, where a burning coal is used to purify the prophet's lips. The combination of arrows and burning coals underscores the severity and completeness of divine retribution against deceit and wickedness.

Woe to me
This expression of lament sets the tone for the psalmist's distress. It reflects a deep sense of sorrow and dissatisfaction with their current circumstances. The use of "woe" is common in biblical literature to express grief or a cry for help, often seen in prophetic writings (e.g., Isaiah 6:5). It indicates a longing for deliverance and a recognition of the fallen state of the world.

that I dwell in Meshech
Meshech is a region often associated with distant lands and peoples, mentioned in Genesis 10:2 as a descendant of Japheth. It is generally located in the area of modern-day Turkey or the southern part of Russia. The mention of Meshech symbolizes living among foreign, possibly hostile, peoples who do not share the psalmist's values or faith. This can be seen as a metaphor for the believer's experience in a world that is often at odds with God's ways.

that I live among the tents of Kedar!
Kedar refers to a nomadic tribe descended from Ishmael, as noted in Genesis 25:13. They were known for their tent-dwelling lifestyle in the Arabian desert. The tents of Kedar symbolize a transient, unsettled life among people who may be seen as adversaries or those who do not follow the God of Israel. This phrase highlights the psalmist's feeling of alienation and longing for a spiritual home. The imagery of tents suggests impermanence and a lack of stability, echoing the believer's journey through a world that is not their ultimate home (Hebrews 11:13-16).

Too long
This phrase suggests a period of extended duration, indicating the psalmist's prolonged experience of distress. In biblical terms, "too long" often reflects a sense of enduring hardship or waiting for divine intervention. This echoes the cries of the Israelites during their captivity or wandering, where they often felt the weight of time in their suffering.

have I dwelt
The word "dwelt" implies living or residing in a place, suggesting a sense of permanence or being settled. In the Old Testament, dwelling often refers to the Israelites' time in foreign lands or among hostile peoples. This can be seen in the context of the Babylonian exile, where the Israelites lived among those who did not share their faith or values.

among those who hate peace
This phrase highlights the psalmist's environment, surrounded by individuals or groups opposed to peace. Biblically, peace (shalom) is not just the absence of conflict but a state of wholeness and harmony with God and others. The psalmist's lament can be connected to the broader biblical narrative of God's people living among nations that rejected God's covenant of peace. This can also be seen as a type of Christ, who lived among those who opposed His message of peace and reconciliation. The longing for peace is a recurring theme in the Psalms and is ultimately fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, as prophesied in Isaiah 9:6.

I am in favor of peace;
The psalmist expresses a desire for peace, which is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. Peace, or "shalom" in Hebrew, signifies not just the absence of conflict but a state of completeness and well-being. This longing for peace reflects God's original design for creation, as seen in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 1-2). The psalmist's stance aligns with the teachings of Jesus, who is called the "Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6) and who taught, "Blessed are the peacemakers" (Matthew 5:9). The desire for peace is also echoed in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18).

but when I speak,
The act of speaking here implies communication and the attempt to resolve conflict through dialogue. In the biblical context, words hold significant power, as seen in Proverbs 18:21, which states that "the tongue has the power of life and death." The psalmist's attempt to speak suggests a proactive approach to conflict resolution, which is consistent with biblical teachings on reconciliation and the importance of wise and gentle speech (James 3:17).

they want war.
The contrast between the psalmist's desire for peace and the adversaries' inclination towards war highlights the reality of human conflict and the presence of evil in the world. This tension is evident throughout Scripture, from the conflicts in the Old Testament to the spiritual warfare described in the New Testament (Ephesians 6:12). The psalmist's experience foreshadows the ultimate conflict between good and evil, culminating in the victory of Christ, who will bring final peace (Revelation 21:4). The adversaries' desire for war can also be seen as a reflection of the fallen human nature, which is often at odds with God's will for peace and reconciliation.