Psalms 79:12

12. And render unto our neighbours Comp, Psalms 79:6. These “neighbours” were the nations lying around Jerusalem, as the Tyrians, Syrians, Moabites, Edomites, who either helped the army of Nebuchadnezzar or exulted in the downfall of the Hebrew nation. See Psalms 137:7; Ezekiel 26:2.

Sevenfold That is, a full and complete recompense: seven is the number of fulness.

Into their bosom The orientals were accustomed to place valuable articles in a fold in the “ bosom” of their long, loose garments, for convenient carriage. See Luke 6:38; Isaiah 40:11. The same custom prevails now. It is formed by or above the wide girdle which encircles the waist. Instead of these valuables should now be the recompense of justice.

Reproached thee This reproach of God’s covenant people was a reproach to the name of God. It was his cause, and he is importuned to see to it. The Chaldaeans hereby inferred the inferiority of Jehovah to their patron god, Bel, or Belus, and thus boasted, as later tests show. See Daniel 3:15; Daniel 4:25; Daniel 4:35; Daniel 4:37; Daniel 5:21; Daniel 5:23. Sweet is the closing breath of the faith and thanksgiving of this mournful psalm:

So we thy people and the sheep of thy pasture

Will give thanks unto thee for ever,

We will declare thy praise to generation and generation.