Psalms 8

Psalms 8:1

THE title: [Gittith] a terme of Musick whose signification is unknown, some hold that it was taken from the city of Gath of the Philistines, from whence the ayre of this song, or the manner of singing it, or the instrument whereto it was sung, had beene taken. Others derive it from a word which signifieth a wine-presse, as though this Psalme were to be sung upon the ayre of some merry song of thanksgiving which was used in time of vintage. Hast set] thou hast established the seat of it in heaven for ever, from whence it spreadeth its beames over the earth.

Psalms 8:2

Ordained] the Italian, sounded, that is to say, thou doest maintaine, the glory of thy power goodnesse and providence against the blasphemies of carnall wisdome, Romans 8:7. by the meanes of sucking babes, whose birth, sustenance and wonderfull protection convinceth the wickednesse of Atheists. As if hee should say, thou doest employ the little, feeble, and ignorant, for instruments of thy glory against the bold undertakings of the wise and mighty, Matthew 11:25. 1 Corinthians 1:27. [strength] the Italian, glory, the Heb strength, the word strength being often taken for glory; because that the chiefe foundation of glory is might and strength: [that thou mightest] namely to suppresse and keep down: [the avenger] by this is meant a deadly, and much incensed enemy, see Psalms 44:16.

Psalms 8:5

A little lower] this might very well bee referred to the command which was conferred upon man over all other creatures, at the first creation. But because by reason of sin he is fallen from it, this is perfectly verified in Christ the second Adam, who hath gotten the title of lawfull heires and possessors of the world, for those which beleeve in him, Romans 4:13. whereof they have but a taste in this world, but in heaven they shall have the full fruition 1 Corinthians 15:27. Hebrews 2:7.