A.M. 2942. B.C. 1062.
This Psalm contains a solemn and instructive meditation on the majesty, greatness, and grace of God. David extols God's glory, as appearing in his works, especially in the heavens and heavenly bodies, and in his producing great and wonderful effects by weak and contemptible instruments, Psalms 8:1-3. His condescension and loving-kindness to mankind, in being mindful of, and visiting them, in grace and mercy, Psalms 8:4; Psalms 8:5. In giving them dominion over this lower world, Psalms 8:6-9. It has been a great question among interpreters, whether this Psalm speaks of man in general, and of the honour which God put upon him in his creation; or only of the man Christ Jesus. But is it not evident, upon comparing it with Hebrews 2:6, that both are included? for the design of the Psalm seems plainly to have been to display and celebrate the great love and kindness of God to mankind, not only in their creation, but also in their redemption by Christ Jesus; whom, as he was man, God advanced to the honour here mentioned, that he might carry on that great and glorious work. Some parts of the Psalm, however, relate more eminently to Christ than to man in general, and accordingly are so interpreted, both by our Lord himself, and by his apostles, Matthew 21:16; 1 Corinthians 15:27; Hebrews 2:6-7.
Title of the Psalm The word גתית, gittith, means a wine-press, and accordingly is rendered by the LXX., υπερ των ληνων, for, or, concerning the wine-presses. And some think, which certainly is not improbable, that the reason why this title was given to this Psalm was, its being appointed to be sung at the time of the vintage. And if so, it is probable the eighty-first and eighty-fourth were intended to be sung at that season also, the same title being likewise given to them. Others, however, think it more probable that a musical instrument brought from Gath is intended, because the Chaldee interprets it, “On the harp which David brought from Gath.” Dr. Hammond renders it, “Upon the Gittite,” that is, Goliath the Gittite; whom David vanquished and slew, and thereby stilled that enemy and avenger, though, in comparison of him, he was as a babe or suckling. And he conjectures, that it was on the occasion of that victory that this triumphant Psalm was composed. But this is a matter of little importance, and the reader is at liberty to use his own judgment concerning it.