Historical chapter commentary
Verse 1. Canticle. Hebrew adds, “of David.” Bible.—Syriac also attributes to him, though Zorobabel, and so forth might recite it at their return. It may also refer to the captives groaning under oppression, ( Calmet.) and to every Christian, who must live in expectation of a better country. Saint Augustine Berthier. Tirinus. viii.
Verse 2. Masters. Expecting liberty, or rather food; though it may also imply that they are ready to run at the first sign, which they observe with attention. Thus Menelaus had his eyes on Agamemnon. Homer. Calmet.—As servants, and particularly handmaids, are very attentive, and hope to receive sustenance, so we ought to pray with all earnestness to God for what is necessary. Worthington.—All must come from Him.—Until. Or “waiting for his having mercy on us.” We shall not cease to look up to Him afterwards. Bert.—“Take care not to turn thine eyes away from mine.” Terent. Adelph. ii. 1.
Verse 4. A reproach. Hebrew “with the reproach of those at ease,” and so forth ( Bible.) or “let reproach fall upon,” and so forth We are treated with too much scorn. Lamentations 3:30. Calmet.—Yet God will not permit his friends to be overcome, but encourages them to hope for speedy redress, when their sufferings are great. Worthington.