A prayer of Moses the man of God.
This introduction identifies the psalm as a prayer attributed to Moses, a unique feature since most psalms are linked to David. Moses, known as the "man of God," is a central figure in the Old Testament, leading the Israelites out of Egypt and receiving the Law at Sinai. His designation as "man of God" underscores his role as a prophet and leader. This psalm is considered one of the oldest, possibly written during the Israelites' wilderness wanderings. It reflects Moses' intimate relationship with God and his role as an intercessor for the people.

Lord, You have been our dwelling place
The term "dwelling place" suggests a place of refuge and safety. For the Israelites, who wandered in the desert for 40 years, the concept of God as a dwelling place would have been particularly poignant. It implies a sense of permanence and stability amidst their transient existence. This phrase connects to other scriptures where God is described as a refuge, such as Psalm 91:1-2. It also foreshadows the New Testament understanding of believers finding their home in Christ (John 15:4).

through all generations.
This phrase emphasizes God's eternal nature and faithfulness across time. It reassures the Israelites of God's unchanging presence and support, despite their changing circumstances. Historically, this reflects the continuity of God's covenant with His people, from Abraham through Moses and beyond. It also points to the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ, who is the same "yesterday, today, and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). This continuity assures believers of God's enduring presence and faithfulness throughout all ages.

Before the mountains were born
This phrase emphasizes God's existence before the creation of the physical world. The mountains, often seen as symbols of permanence and stability, highlight the eternal nature of God, who predates even the most ancient and enduring parts of creation. In biblical times, mountains were considered sacred and were often sites of divine revelation, such as Mount Sinai. This underscores the idea that God is the ultimate source of all creation, transcending time and space.

or You brought forth the earth and the world
This part of the verse speaks to God's role as the Creator. The distinction between "earth" and "world" may suggest the physical planet and the inhabited world, respectively. This aligns with the Genesis account of creation, where God speaks the universe into existence. The act of creation is a demonstration of God's power and sovereignty, setting the stage for His ongoing relationship with humanity. The imagery of God "bringing forth" creation can also be seen as a type of Christ, who is described in the New Testament as the agent of creation (John 1:3, Colossians 1:16).

from everlasting to everlasting You are God
This phrase affirms the eternal nature of God, existing beyond the confines of time. The concept of "everlasting" suggests an infinite past and future, highlighting God's unchanging and eternal character. This is a central theme in Scripture, where God is often described as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end (Revelation 1:8). The eternal nature of God provides a foundation for trust and faith, as His purposes and promises are not subject to change. This eternal aspect of God is also reflected in Jesus Christ, who is described as the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

You return man to dust
This phrase reflects the biblical understanding of human mortality and the transient nature of life. It echoes Genesis 3:19, where God tells Adam, "For dust you are and to dust you shall return," highlighting the consequence of sin and the fall. The imagery of dust signifies the frailty and impermanence of human life, contrasting with God's eternal nature. Archaeological findings in ancient Near Eastern cultures often depict similar themes of human mortality, emphasizing the shared understanding of life's brevity across civilizations. This phrase also points to the ultimate authority of God over life and death, reminding believers of their dependence on Him.

saying, “Return, O sons of mortals.”
This part of the verse underscores the inevitability of death for all humanity, referred to here as "sons of mortals." The term "sons of mortals" emphasizes human lineage and the inherited nature of mortality from Adam. It connects to the broader biblical narrative of human sinfulness and the need for redemption. The call to "return" can be seen as a divine decree, reinforcing God's sovereign control over the life cycle. This phrase can also be viewed in light of the hope of resurrection, as seen in 1 Corinthians 15:22, "For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive." It points to the ultimate restoration and eternal life offered through Jesus Christ, who conquers death and offers believers a return to eternal communion with God.

For in Your sight
This phrase emphasizes God's eternal perspective, contrasting with human limitations. It reflects the biblical theme of God's omniscience and omnipresence, as seen in passages like Isaiah 55:8-9, where God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours. It underscores the divine attribute of seeing all of time simultaneously, a concept that is beyond human comprehension.

a thousand years
The mention of "a thousand years" is symbolic, representing a long period of time. This is not meant to be a literal measurement but rather a way to express God's timeless nature. This concept is echoed in 2 Peter 3:8, which also states that with the Lord, a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. It highlights the difference between God's eternal nature and human temporality.

are but a day that passes
This phrase illustrates the fleeting nature of time from God's perspective. While humans experience time sequentially, God exists outside of time. The imagery of a day passing suggests the transience of human life, a theme prevalent in biblical literature, such as in James 4:14, which compares life to a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.

or a watch of the night
A "watch of the night" refers to a division of time used in ancient cultures, particularly in military contexts, where the night was divided into watches for guard duty. In biblical times, the night was typically divided into three or four watches. This phrase further emphasizes the brevity and insignificance of human time in comparison to God's eternal existence. It also connects to the theme of vigilance and readiness, as seen in Jesus' teachings in Mark 13:35-37, where He instructs His followers to be watchful and alert.

You sweep them away in their sleep;
This phrase reflects the transient nature of human life, emphasizing the brevity and fragility of existence. The imagery of being swept away suggests suddenness and inevitability, akin to a flood or a powerful force that cannot be resisted. In biblical context, this can be seen as a reference to God's sovereignty over life and death, echoing themes found in other scriptures such as Job 14:12 and James 4:14, which speak of life as fleeting. The "sleep" here can symbolize death, a common metaphor in the Bible, as seen in John 11:11-14 where Jesus refers to Lazarus's death as sleep. This phrase underscores the idea that life is ultimately in God's hands, and human beings are subject to His will.

they are like the new grass of the morning—
The comparison to "new grass of the morning" highlights the temporary and fragile nature of human life. In the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East, grass would grow quickly with the morning dew but wither under the hot sun, as seen in Isaiah 40:6-8. This imagery is used to convey the idea that human life, though it may appear vibrant and full of potential, is ultimately short-lived. The new grass can also symbolize renewal and the cycle of life, yet it remains ephemeral. This connects to the broader biblical theme of the fleeting nature of earthly life compared to the eternal nature of God, as seen in Psalm 103:15-16. The phrase serves as a reminder of human mortality and the need to seek eternal significance through a relationship with God.

in the morning it springs up new
This phrase reflects the transient nature of human life, likened to grass that appears fresh and vibrant at the start of the day. In biblical times, the morning was often associated with new beginnings and renewal, as seen in Lamentations 3:22-23, where God's mercies are described as new every morning. The imagery of grass is common in Scripture to depict the brevity of life, as in Isaiah 40:6-8, emphasizing the contrast between the eternal nature of God and the fleeting existence of humans. The morning symbolizes hope and potential, a time when life seems full of promise and opportunity.

but by evening it fades and withers
The evening represents the inevitable decline and end of life, a theme prevalent throughout the Bible. This imagery of fading and withering grass is a reminder of mortality and the swift passage of time, echoing Job 14:1-2, where life is described as short-lived and full of trouble. The cultural context of the ancient Near East, where the harsh sun could quickly wither vegetation, underscores the fragility of life. This phrase also serves as a call to wisdom, urging believers to live with an awareness of life's brevity, as seen in Psalm 90:12, which asks God to teach us to number our days. The cycle from morning to evening can be seen as a metaphor for the human life span, pointing to the need for reliance on God's eternal nature and promises.

For we are consumed by Your anger
This phrase reflects the understanding of God's righteous indignation against sin. In the context of Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, it acknowledges the consequences of Israel's disobedience during their wilderness journey. The term "consumed" suggests a complete and overwhelming experience, indicating the severity of divine judgment. This echoes the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and justice, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 9:7-8, where Israel's rebellion provokes God's anger. The historical context of Israel's repeated failures and God's subsequent discipline serves as a backdrop, reminding believers of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance.

and terrified by Your wrath.
The word "terrified" conveys a deep fear and reverence for God's power and authority. This fear is not merely emotional but is rooted in the reality of God's ability to execute judgment. The concept of divine wrath is consistent throughout Scripture, as seen in Romans 1:18, where God's wrath is revealed against all ungodliness. The cultural context of ancient Israel, where divine retribution was a common understanding, underscores the gravity of this statement. This phrase also points to the eschatological reality of God's final judgment, as seen in Revelation 6:16-17, where humanity seeks to hide from the wrath of the Lamb. In a typological sense, it foreshadows the necessity of Christ's atoning sacrifice, which satisfies God's wrath and offers believers peace with God, as articulated in Romans 5:9.

You have set our iniquities before You
This phrase acknowledges God's omniscience and His awareness of human sin. Iniquities refer to moral wrongdoings or sins, and the idea of them being set before God suggests that nothing is hidden from Him. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's justice and righteousness, as seen in passages like Job 34:21, which states that God’s eyes are on the ways of man. The historical context of this psalm, attributed to Moses, reflects the Israelites' awareness of their sins during their wilderness journey, as recorded in the Pentateuch. Theologically, this phrase underscores the need for repentance and the acknowledgment of sin before a holy God.

our secret sins in the light of Your presence
This part of the verse highlights the concept that even sins hidden from others are exposed before God. The "light of Your presence" suggests God's purity and holiness, which illuminates and reveals all things. This is consistent with the biblical theme found in Hebrews 4:13, where it is stated that nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a strong emphasis on community and public confession, yet this phrase emphasizes personal accountability before God. Theologically, it points to the need for inner purity and sincerity, as Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:8). The light metaphor is also a type of Christ, who is described as the Light of the World in John 8:12, bringing truth and revelation.

For all our days decline in Your fury;
This phrase reflects the transience and brevity of human life under the judgment of God. The context of Psalm 90 is a prayer of Moses, highlighting the contrast between God's eternal nature and human mortality. The "fury" mentioned here can be understood as God's righteous anger towards sin, which is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament. This aligns with the consequences of the Fall in Genesis 3, where sin introduced death and decay into the world. The Israelites experienced God's wrath during their wilderness wanderings, as recounted in Numbers, where an entire generation perished due to disobedience. This phrase serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance.

we finish our years with a sigh.
The "sigh" signifies the weariness and sorrow that often accompany the end of life. This reflects the human experience of aging and the inevitable approach of death, which is a result of the curse of sin. In Ecclesiastes, Solomon speaks of the vanity and fleeting nature of life, echoing the sentiment of this phrase. The sigh can also be seen as a longing for redemption and the hope of eternal life, which is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus offers rest and eternal life to those who believe in Him, providing a resolution to the sigh of mortality. This phrase encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective, trusting in God's promise of salvation and the hope of resurrection.

The length of our days is seventy years—
This phrase reflects the typical lifespan during the time of Moses, who is traditionally credited with writing this psalm. It acknowledges the brevity of human life compared to the eternal nature of God. In biblical times, reaching seventy years was considered a full life, as seen in the lives of patriarchs like Abraham and Isaac, who lived much longer, indicating a decline in lifespan post-flood.

or eighty if we are strong—
This suggests that with strength and health, some may live longer, up to eighty years. It highlights the variability of human life and the grace of God in granting additional years. This can be seen as a reminder of human frailty and the need to rely on God's strength. The mention of strength may also imply the physical and spiritual vigor required to endure life's challenges.

yet their pride is but labor and sorrow,
This phrase underscores the futility of human pride and achievements, which often result in toil and grief. It reflects the curse of labor from Genesis 3:17-19, where work became burdensome due to sin. The pride of life, as warned against in 1 John 2:16, is fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying, pointing to the need for humility and dependence on God.

for they quickly pass,
Life's transience is emphasized here, echoing the sentiments of other scriptures like James 4:14, which compares life to a mist. This brevity serves as a call to wisdom, urging believers to number their days and live purposefully, as advised in Psalm 90:12. It also points to the eternal perspective that life on earth is temporary, and true fulfillment is found in eternity with God.

and we fly away.
This imagery of flying away suggests the soul's departure from the body at death, reminiscent of Ecclesiastes 12:7, where the spirit returns to God. It can also be seen as a type of the believer's hope in the resurrection and eternal life, as promised in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. The phrase evokes the idea of liberation from earthly struggles and entry into God's presence.

Who knows the power of Your anger?
This phrase reflects the incomprehensibility of God's anger and judgment. In biblical context, God's anger is often associated with His holiness and justice, as seen in the narratives of the Old Testament, such as the flood in Genesis 6-9 and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19. The rhetorical question implies that human understanding is limited when it comes to fully grasping the extent of divine wrath. This aligns with passages like Isaiah 55:8-9, which emphasize the difference between God's thoughts and ways and those of humans. The phrase also serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for reverence towards God.

Your wrath matches the fear You are due.
This part of the verse highlights the concept of divine retribution, where God's wrath is proportionate to the reverence and awe He deserves. The fear of the Lord is a recurring theme in Scripture, often associated with wisdom and obedience (Proverbs 9:10). The fear mentioned here is not merely terror but a profound respect and acknowledgment of God's majesty and authority. This idea is echoed in Deuteronomy 10:12, where the Israelites are called to fear the Lord and walk in His ways. Theologically, this phrase underscores the balance between God's justice and mercy, as His wrath is a response to sin, yet it is tempered by His desire for repentance and restoration, as seen in the New Testament through the atoning work of Jesus Christ (Romans 5:9).

So teach us to number our days
This phrase reflects a plea for divine instruction, emphasizing the need for awareness of life's brevity. In the context of Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, it underscores the transient nature of human life compared to God's eternal existence. The request for teaching suggests humility and recognition of human limitations. Biblically, this echoes themes found in Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, where the seasons of life are acknowledged, and in James 4:14, which describes life as a mist. The phrase invites reflection on mortality, urging believers to live with purpose and intentionality.

that we may present a heart of wisdom
The desired outcome of numbering our days is to cultivate wisdom. In Hebrew thought, wisdom (chokmah) is not merely intellectual but practical, involving righteous living and reverence for God. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom," linking wisdom to a relationship with God. This heart of wisdom is a metaphor for an inner transformation that aligns one's life with divine principles. The phrase suggests that understanding life's brevity should lead to a life marked by discernment and godly priorities, reminiscent of Jesus' teachings in Matthew 6:19-21 about storing treasures in heaven.

Return, O LORD!
This plea for the Lord's return reflects a deep yearning for God's presence and intervention. In the context of Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, it echoes the Israelites' experiences in the wilderness, where they often sought God's guidance and deliverance. The call for God's return can be seen as a desire for restoration and renewal, reminiscent of the Israelites' longing for the Promised Land. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical theme of God's return, as seen in prophecies about the Messiah and the Second Coming of Christ (e.g., Revelation 22:20).

How long will it be?
This question expresses a sense of urgency and impatience, common in the laments found throughout the Psalms. It reflects the human experience of waiting for God's timing, which often seems delayed from a human perspective. This phrase resonates with other biblical passages where God's people cry out for deliverance, such as in Habakkuk 1:2 and Revelation 6:10. It underscores the tension between divine timing and human expectation, encouraging believers to trust in God's perfect plan.

Have compassion on Your servants.
The request for compassion highlights God's character as merciful and loving. In the Old Testament, God's compassion is frequently demonstrated in His dealings with Israel, despite their repeated disobedience (e.g., Exodus 34:6-7). This plea acknowledges the relationship between God and His people, where they are His servants, dependent on His grace and mercy. It also foreshadows the ultimate expression of God's compassion through Jesus Christ, who embodies God's mercy and offers salvation to all who believe (e.g., Matthew 9:36, Ephesians 2:4-5).

Satisfy us in the morning with Your loving devotion
This phrase reflects a deep yearning for God's presence and favor at the start of each day. The "morning" symbolizes new beginnings and hope, suggesting that the psalmist seeks God's mercy and love as a foundation for daily life. The term "loving devotion" is often translated as "steadfast love" or "covenant faithfulness," highlighting God's unwavering commitment to His people. This echoes the covenantal relationship God established with Israel, as seen in Exodus 34:6-7, where God describes Himself as "abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness." The request for satisfaction implies a spiritual fulfillment that only God can provide, contrasting with the fleeting pleasures of the world. This longing for divine satisfaction is a recurring theme in the Psalms, such as in Psalm 63:1-5, where the psalmist expresses a thirst for God as in a dry and weary land.

that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days
The result of being satisfied with God's loving devotion is a life filled with joy and gladness. Singing for joy is a common expression of worship and gratitude in the Psalms, reflecting a heart transformed by God's grace. This joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is rooted in the assurance of God's presence and promises. The phrase "all our days" suggests a lifelong experience of God's goodness, reminiscent of the blessings promised in Deuteronomy 28:1-14 for obedience to God's commands. This enduring joy can be seen as a foretaste of the eternal joy believers will experience in God's presence, as described in Revelation 21:3-4, where God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more sorrow or pain. The joy and gladness mentioned here also point to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who offers abundant life (John 10:10) and whose resurrection ensures eternal joy for His followers.

Make us glad for as many days as You have afflicted us
This phrase reflects a plea for restoration and balance after a period of suffering. The psalmist acknowledges God's sovereignty in allowing affliction, which is a common theme throughout the Old Testament, where God uses trials to discipline and refine His people (Deuteronomy 8:5, Hebrews 12:6). The request for gladness equal to the days of affliction suggests a desire for divine justice and mercy, reminiscent of Job's restoration (Job 42:10). Theologically, it underscores the belief in God's ability to transform suffering into joy, a theme echoed in the New Testament (Romans 8:28).

for as many years as we have seen evil
This part of the verse acknowledges the prolonged experience of hardship and evil, which can be understood in the context of Israel's history, such as the years of wandering in the wilderness (Numbers 14:33-34) or the Babylonian exile (Jeremiah 29:10). The mention of "years" indicates a significant period, suggesting that the community has endured long-term suffering. Theologically, it points to the hope for redemption and restoration, a promise seen in prophecies like Isaiah 61:7, where God promises a double portion of blessing for former shame. This longing for deliverance and restoration is ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who brings eternal joy and redemption (John 16:20-22).

May Your work be shown to Your servants
This phrase reflects a plea for God to reveal His deeds to His people. In the context of Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, it underscores the desire for divine intervention and guidance. The "work" of God often refers to His acts of creation, providence, and redemption. In the Old Testament, God's work was evident in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, the provision in the wilderness, and the giving of the Law. This request for God’s work to be visible aligns with the broader biblical theme of God revealing Himself through His actions, as seen in Exodus 34:10, where God promises to perform wonders never before done in any nation. The servants of God, in this context, are those who are devoted to Him, seeking His will and purpose in their lives.

and Your splendor to their children
This part of the verse emphasizes the desire for future generations to witness God's glory. The term "splendor" refers to the majesty and beauty of God, often associated with His presence and the manifestation of His power. In biblical history, the splendor of God was evident in the cloud and fire that led Israel, the glory that filled the tabernacle, and later the temple. This plea for children to see God's splendor highlights the importance of passing down faith and the knowledge of God’s mighty acts to the next generation, as instructed in Deuteronomy 6:6-7. It also points to the hope that God’s covenant promises will continue to be fulfilled, ensuring that His glory is recognized and revered by all descendants. This reflects a forward-looking faith, trusting in God’s ongoing revelation and presence.

May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
This phrase is a plea for divine favor and blessing. In the context of Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, it reflects a deep dependence on God's grace. The "favor" of the Lord is often associated with His presence and approval, as seen in Numbers 6:24-26, where the Aaronic blessing asks for God's face to shine upon His people. The idea of God's favor resting upon His people suggests a continuous and abiding presence, reminiscent of the cloud and fire that guided the Israelites in the wilderness (Exodus 13:21-22). This favor is not earned but is a gift of grace, aligning with the broader biblical theme of God's unmerited favor towards humanity.

establish for us the work of our hands—
The request for God to "establish" the work of their hands indicates a desire for permanence and success in their endeavors. In the ancient Near Eastern context, where life was often uncertain and labor-intensive, seeking divine establishment was crucial. This reflects a recognition that human efforts are ultimately futile without God's blessing, as echoed in Proverbs 16:3, "Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established." Theologically, this acknowledges God's sovereignty over human affairs and the need for His intervention to bring lasting value to human labor.

yes, establish the work of our hands!
The repetition emphasizes the earnestness and urgency of the plea. It underscores the belief that without God's intervention, human efforts are transient and ultimately meaningless, as highlighted in Ecclesiastes 1:2. This repetition also serves as a form of Hebrew parallelism, a common literary device in the Psalms, which reinforces the message. Theologically, it points to the idea that true fulfillment and purpose in work come from aligning one's efforts with God's will, a concept that finds its ultimate expression in the New Testament teaching of working as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23). This plea can also be seen as a type of Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the work given to Him by the Father, establishing the ultimate work of redemption for humanity.