The author of this psalm is unknown, as is also the occasion on which it was composed. It is not known, either, why this psalm was placed among those which are called “Songs of Degrees.” The scope and design of it, however, cannot be misunderstood. It is intended to show the advantage of religion on the affairs of this life, and especially on the domestic relations; in a numerous family, in the character of children, and in being permitted to see numerous descendants. In connection with this, the possessor of true religion would be permitted to see the prosperity of Zion - the good of Jerusalem, and peace upon Israel. Of course this is to be regarded as a general statement, or as indicating what will commonly be true as the restilt of religion. See Psalms 37:9, note; Psalms 37:33, note; Psalms 112:2-3, note. Thus industry, temperance, prudence, tend to promote health and long life, so that health and a long life are the general result; but it would be unfair to regard one who should assert this as meaning to say that it is universally true, or that people who are industrious, temperate, and prudent, are never sick, and never die.
The psalm states, in general Psalms 128:1, the blessedness of those who fear the Lord. This blessedness is seen
(1) in their success in life, Psalms 128:2;
(2) in a numerous and happy family, Psalms 128:3;
(3) in being permitted to see children’s children, Psalms 128:6;
(4) in being permitted to see the prosperity of religion - the “good of Jerusalem,” and “peace upon Israel,” Psalms 128:5-6.