For the choirmaster: To the tune of “Do Not Destroy.”
This phrase indicates that the psalm was intended for public worship and was to be performed by the choirmaster. The tune "Do Not Destroy" is also referenced in other psalms (Psalms 57, 58, 59), suggesting a well-known melody or style of the time. This title may imply a plea for preservation or protection, fitting the themes of divine justice and deliverance found in the psalm.

A Psalm of Asaph.
Asaph was a prominent Levite musician appointed by King David to lead worship in the tabernacle (1 Chronicles 16:4-5). Psalms attributed to Asaph often focus on God's sovereignty, justice, and the importance of worship. Asaph's role as a leader in worship underscores the communal and liturgical nature of this psalm.

A song.
This designation highlights the psalm's use in musical worship, emphasizing its role in the liturgical life of Israel. Songs in ancient Israel were a means of teaching theology, expressing communal identity, and reinforcing cultural values.

We give thanks to You, O God; we give thanks,
The repetition of "we give thanks" emphasizes the communal gratitude of the people. Thanksgiving is a central theme in the Psalms, reflecting a response to God's faithfulness and mighty acts. This expression of gratitude is a key aspect of worship and acknowledges God's ongoing relationship with His people.

for Your Name is near.
In biblical terms, God's "Name" represents His character and presence. The nearness of God's Name suggests His intimate involvement with His people and His readiness to act on their behalf. This phrase echoes the covenantal promise of God's presence with Israel (Exodus 33:14).

The people declare Your wondrous works.
The declaration of God's wondrous works refers to the recounting of His mighty deeds, such as creation, deliverance from Egypt, and other acts of salvation. This public proclamation serves to remind the community of God's power and faithfulness, encouraging trust and obedience. It also connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's redemptive history, culminating in the work of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate revelation of God's wondrous works (John 1:14).

When I choose a time
This phrase emphasizes God's sovereignty and control over time and events. In biblical context, God's timing is often different from human expectations, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:1, which speaks of a time for every purpose under heaven. The concept of divine timing is also evident in the life of Jesus, such as in John 7:6, where Jesus speaks of His time not yet being fulfilled. This highlights the belief that God operates on His own schedule, which is perfect and purposeful.

I will judge fairly
This part of the verse underscores God's role as the righteous judge. Throughout Scripture, God is depicted as a just judge who administers justice without partiality, as seen in Deuteronomy 32:4, which describes His works as perfect and all His ways as just. The fairness of God's judgment is a recurring theme, assuring believers that He will right all wrongs and vindicate the righteous. This is further reflected in the New Testament, where Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate judge who will return to judge the living and the dead, as stated in Acts 10:42. The assurance of fair judgment is a source of hope and comfort for believers, affirming that God's justice will ultimately prevail.

When the earth and all its dwellers quake
This phrase reflects a time of instability and turmoil, both physically and spiritually. In biblical context, earthquakes often symbolize God's power and judgment (e.g., Exodus 19:18, Matthew 27:51). The imagery of the earth quaking can also represent the upheaval of nations or the shaking of human confidence in worldly systems. Historically, the ancient Near East experienced frequent seismic activity, making this imagery relatable to the original audience. Theologically, it underscores the transient nature of human life and the need for divine intervention.

it is I who bear up its pillars
This statement emphasizes God's sovereignty and sustaining power over creation. The "pillars" symbolize the foundational structures of the earth, suggesting that God maintains order amidst chaos. This imagery is consistent with other scriptures that depict God as the sustainer of the universe (e.g., Job 9:6, Colossians 1:17). Theologically, it reassures believers of God's control and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem unstable. It also points to God's role as the ultimate judge and ruler, who upholds justice and righteousness.

Selah
The term "Selah" is often interpreted as a pause for reflection or a musical interlude, inviting the reader or listener to contemplate the preceding message. In the context of this verse, it serves as a moment to meditate on God's power and faithfulness in sustaining the world. It encourages believers to trust in God's unchanging nature and to find peace in His sovereignty, despite the uncertainties of life.

I say to the proud, ‘Do not boast,’
This phrase addresses the sin of pride, a recurring theme throughout the Bible. Pride is often seen as the root of many other sins, as it elevates the self above God and others. In biblical context, pride is condemned because it leads to self-reliance rather than dependence on God. Proverbs 16:18 warns, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." The call to not boast is a reminder of the humility that God desires from His people. In the New Testament, James 4:6 states, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble," reinforcing the idea that humility is a virtue that aligns with God's will.

and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn.’
The imagery of the "horn" in biblical literature often symbolizes strength and power. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, horns were associated with animals like bulls, representing might and dominance. The command to the wicked not to "lift up your horn" is a warning against arrogance and self-exaltation. This phrase suggests that the wicked should not assert their power or challenge God's authority. In 1 Samuel 2:1, Hannah's prayer includes the phrase, "My horn is exalted in the LORD," indicating that true strength and honor come from God alone. The warning here is a call to recognize God's sovereignty and to submit to His rule, rather than relying on one's own power or status.

Do not lift up your horn against heaven
The phrase "lift up your horn" is a metaphorical expression often used in the Bible to signify pride or self-exaltation. In ancient cultures, the horn was a symbol of strength and power, often associated with animals like bulls or rams. To "lift up" one's horn implies an act of defiance or arrogance. In the context of Psalm 75, this is a warning against human pride and rebellion against divine authority. The mention of "heaven" underscores the futility of opposing God, who is sovereign over all creation. This theme is echoed in other scriptures, such as 1 Samuel 2:3, where Hannah warns against arrogance, and in Daniel 4:37, where Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges God's dominion after being humbled.

or speak with an outstretched neck.’”
The imagery of an "outstretched neck" conveys stubbornness and haughtiness. In biblical times, this expression would have been understood as a posture of defiance and pride, similar to a stiff-necked animal resisting guidance or control. This phrase serves as a caution against the arrogance that leads individuals to challenge God's authority. The concept of a "stiff neck" is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe the Israelites' rebellion, as seen in Exodus 32:9 and Deuteronomy 9:6. It highlights the danger of pride leading to spiritual downfall, a theme that resonates throughout scripture, including Proverbs 16:18, which warns that pride precedes destruction.

For exaltation comes neither from east nor west
This phrase emphasizes that true exaltation or promotion does not originate from any earthly direction or human source. In biblical times, the east and west were often seen as symbolic of the vastness of the earth, representing all human endeavors and powers. The east, associated with the rising sun, often symbolized new beginnings or human efforts, while the west, where the sun sets, could represent the end of human endeavors. This phrase underscores the belief that human advancement is not determined by worldly powers or geographical locations but by divine will. This is consistent with other scriptures, such as Daniel 2:21, which states that God "changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others."

nor out of the desert
The desert, or wilderness, in biblical literature often symbolizes desolation, testing, and a place devoid of human influence. It is a place where God’s provision and guidance are most evident, as seen in the Israelites' journey through the wilderness in Exodus. The mention of the desert here reinforces the idea that exaltation does not come from barren or desolate places, which could also symbolize human efforts that are devoid of divine blessing. This aligns with the biblical theme that God often chooses the unlikely and the humble to fulfill His purposes, as seen in the calling of Moses from the desert (Exodus 3) and John the Baptist's ministry in the wilderness (Matthew 3:1-3).

but it is God who judges;
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and ultimate authority of God in matters of judgment. In the biblical context, God is often portrayed as the supreme judge who discerns the hearts and actions of individuals and nations. This aligns with passages such as Genesis 18:25, where Abraham acknowledges God as the Judge of all the earth. The concept of God as judge is central to the biblical narrative, underscoring His righteousness and justice. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, judges were leaders who delivered and guided the people, but this phrase elevates God above human judges, affirming His divine prerogative to judge rightly.

He brings down one
This part of the verse reflects the biblical theme of God's control over the rise and fall of individuals and nations. Historical examples include the fall of King Saul and the rise of King David, as seen in 1 Samuel 15-16. The phrase suggests that God actively intervenes in human affairs, humbling those who are proud or wicked. This is echoed in the story of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4, where God humbles the Babylonian king to demonstrate His power and sovereignty. Theologically, it serves as a reminder of the transient nature of human power and the futility of pride.

and exalts another.
This phrase complements the previous one, highlighting God's ability to elevate those whom He chooses. Biblically, this is seen in the elevation of Joseph from a prisoner to a ruler in Egypt (Genesis 41) and the anointing of David as king despite his humble beginnings (1 Samuel 16). It underscores the biblical principle that God honors humility and righteousness, as seen in James 4:10, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up." This also points to the ultimate exaltation of Jesus Christ, who, though humbled in His incarnation and crucifixion, was exalted by God through His resurrection and ascension (Philippians 2:9-11). This phrase reassures believers of God's just and sovereign plan, where He rewards faithfulness and humility.

For a cup is in the hand of the LORD
The imagery of a cup in the hand of the LORD is a common biblical metaphor for divine judgment. In ancient Near Eastern culture, a cup often symbolized one's fate or destiny, and in the context of scripture, it frequently represents God's wrath or blessing. The hand of the LORD signifies His sovereign control and authority over the affairs of humanity. This phrase sets the stage for understanding the nature of God's judgment as deliberate and purposeful.

full of foaming wine mixed with spices
The description of the wine as "foaming" suggests a potent and intoxicating drink, symbolizing the intensity and completeness of God's judgment. In ancient times, wine was often mixed with spices to enhance its flavor and potency, indicating that the judgment is not only powerful but also meticulously prepared. This imagery can be connected to the cup of wrath mentioned in other scriptures, such as Jeremiah 25:15-16, where nations are made to drink from the cup of God's wrath, leading to their downfall.

He pours from His cup
The act of pouring signifies the execution of judgment. It is a deliberate action by God, emphasizing His active role in administering justice. This phrase highlights the certainty and inevitability of divine judgment upon the wicked. The pouring out of the cup can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promises to judge sin and uphold righteousness, as seen throughout the prophetic books of the Old Testament.

and all the wicked of the earth drink it down to the dregs
The wicked are those who oppose God's will and live in rebellion against His commandments. The phrase "drink it down to the dregs" indicates that they will experience the full measure of God's judgment, leaving nothing behind. The dregs are the sediment at the bottom of a cup, symbolizing the most bitter and undesirable part. This complete consumption of the cup's contents underscores the totality of God's judgment. This concept is echoed in Revelation 14:10, where those who worship the beast will drink the wine of God's wrath, poured full strength into the cup of His anger.

But I will proclaim Him forever;
This phrase emphasizes the psalmist's commitment to continually declare God's greatness and works. The use of "forever" suggests an eternal perspective, aligning with the biblical theme of God's eternal nature (Psalm 90:2). The act of proclamation is a common biblical motif, seen in the lives of prophets and apostles who declared God's word (Jeremiah 1:7, Acts 4:20). This commitment to proclamation can be seen as a response to God's faithfulness and justice, themes prevalent in the Psalms. The psalmist's resolve to proclaim God reflects a personal relationship and understanding of His sovereignty and righteousness.

I will sing praise to the God of Jacob.
The reference to "the God of Jacob" connects the psalmist's praise to the covenantal relationship God established with the patriarchs, particularly Jacob, whose name was later changed to Israel (Genesis 32:28). This highlights God's faithfulness to His promises and His chosen people. Singing praise is a form of worship that is deeply rooted in Israelite tradition, as seen in the Psalms and other biblical texts (Exodus 15:1, Psalm 150). The act of singing signifies joy, gratitude, and reverence, and it is a communal activity that unites believers in worship. The mention of Jacob also serves as a reminder of God's transformative power, as Jacob's life was marked by encounters with God that led to significant personal and spiritual growth.

All the horns of the wicked I will cut off
In biblical symbolism, "horns" often represent strength, power, and authority. The imagery of cutting off the horns of the wicked signifies the removal of their power and influence. This phrase reflects God's judgment against those who oppose His will and act in wickedness. Throughout the Old Testament, God consistently demonstrates His sovereignty by humbling the proud and powerful who defy Him, as seen in the stories of Pharaoh in Exodus and Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel. The cutting off of horns can also be seen as a prophetic act, foreshadowing the ultimate defeat of evil at the end of times, as described in Revelation.

but the horns of the righteous will be exalted
In contrast, the exaltation of the horns of the righteous signifies the elevation and empowerment of those who live in accordance with God's will. This promise of exaltation is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God honors and uplifts those who are faithful to Him. The righteous are often depicted as being under God's protection and blessing, as seen in the lives of figures like Joseph and David. This phrase also points to the ultimate vindication and reward of the righteous in the eschatological future, where they will reign with Christ, as described in Revelation 20:4. The exaltation of the righteous can be seen as a type of Christ, who, though humbled and crucified, was ultimately exalted and given the name above all names (Philippians 2:9-11).