Time after Pentecost · Proper 17 · Year C
Psalm 131
I Have Calmed and Quieted My Soul
September 3, 2028
Overview & Insights
“I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother.” (Psalm 131:2)
Though one of the shortest of psalms, Psalm 131 is one of the most profound. Its image of tranquillity we readily admire, but its advice we all too readily dismiss as impractical. When things go wrong, the temptation is to make ambitious plans and redouble our efforts. Such was clearly the case for Judah in the hardships of the early postexilic period. But this psalm of ascent counsels God’s people to engage in contemplation before action.
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Commentary
Psalm 131 Commentary Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik on the psalm's image of a weaned, no-longer-demanding child at rest with its mother.
Psalm 131:1 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentaries on this short psalm's picture of humility and quieted ambition.
Psalm 131 - Gill's Exposition StudyLight
Gill's Exposition on David's renunciation of 'things too great and marvelous' for him.
Background & Word Study
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What is Psalm 131?
A short Song of Ascents of childlike humility: the psalmist does not occupy himself with things too great, but stills his soul like a weaned child, and calls Israel to hope in the Lord.
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