Oh that thou wouldest rend the heavens, that thou wouldest come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy presence,
Ver. 1. Oh that thou wouldst rend the heavens.] That thou wouldst lie no longer hid there, as to some it may seem; but making thy way through all impediments and obstacles, thou wouldst powerfully appear for our help, as out of an engine. Utinam lacerares coelos et descenderes. a Some take the words for a hearty wish that Christ would come in the flesh; others that he would make haste and come to judgment, late fisso coelo ad percellendum impios. The metaphor seemeth to be taken from such as being desirous suddenly and effectually to help others in distress, to break open doors, and cast aside all lets, to make their way to them.
That the mountains may flow down.] As in Judges 5:5. By "mountains" some understand the enemy's kingdoms.
a Lyra. Alex. Ales.