To the Chief Musician. Set to “The Lilies.” A contemplation of the sons of Korah. A Song of Love. (Psalm 45)
It is quite common when reading the psalms to briefly glance at the heading of each without giving it much regard. Occasionally, these introductions contain important points to consider. This particular psalm is called a maschil or “contemplation” — a poetic composition intended to be instructive to those who hear its words. Also, take note that the authors are the sons of Korah — the man who led a rebellion against God’s anointed when Israel was in the wilderness. Lastly, it is noteworthy to mention that this psalm was “set to the shoshanim” (lilies) — a Hebrew word that denotes flowers, which is also translated as “roses.” Now let’s put all of this together.
The authors of this composition were the descendants of an infamous rebel who perished in the wilderness along with others who opposed the will of God. Had Korah’s sons not repented, they too would have perished with their father and their compositions would not exist. Thankfully they courageously decided to honor the man of God in spite of the affections they would have had for their father. And so at some point in later years, they sought to undo the treachery of their ancestor by portraying those God has chosen as people to be honored, hence these words of contemplation. Understanding the background is why it is of great interest that the psalm is “set to the shoshanim” or roses.
The rose is a flower surrounded by thorns — sharp projectiles which appear to be ready to pierce the delicate petals. But in reality, the thorns are there to shield the flower from those who would pluck it. It should be pointed out that Korah and his sons were closely related to Moses and were in positions of power and influence. Korah attempted to use this relationship to pluck his cousin from his position of leadership in this failed coup. His sons on the other hand, rather than injuring Moses, separated themselves from their father’s rebellion. Though they had at first stood against him, like the thorns protecting the rose, they became some of his staunchest protectors and admirers.
There are many lessons we can glean from this; those chosen by God will always be assailed by adversaries but, if they remain steadfast in their call, it is possible that those who were once enemies can become allies. The greatest demonstration of this, in my view, is what we anticipate in the days leading up to Messiah’s return. Those who have rejected Him as Messiah and resisted His authority will one day acknowledge Him as King. As it is written, “I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. and will mourn for Him as one mourns for his only son” (Zechariah 12:10).
There is coming a day when those who have opposed Him will worship Him. The sons of Korah are testament to what can happen when repentant hearts honor the One God has chosen. Let’s keep this in mind as we read through this psalm and, also, let’s commit ourselves to being one of those thorns that serves to honor and protect that which has been entrusted to us by the Father.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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