Charles Ellicott Commentary Psalms 85:9-11

"Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him, That glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth are met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth springeth out of the earth; And righteousness hath looked down from heaven." — Psalms 85:9-11 (ASV)

The exquisite personification of these verses is, it has been truly remarked, exactly in Isaiah’s manner. (See Isaiah 32:16 and following, Isaiah 45:8; Isaiah 59:14.) It is an allegory of completed national happiness, which, though presented in language peculiar to Hebrew thought, is nonetheless universal in its application. Nor does it stop at material blessings, but lends itself to the expression of the highest truths.

The poet sees once more the glory which had so long deserted the land come back—as its symbol, the ark, once came back—and take up its abode there. He sees the covenant favour once more descend and meet the divine faithfulness, which perplexed minds had recently doubted, but which the return of prosperity has now confirmed. Righteousness and peace, or prosperity, these inseparable brothers, kiss each other and fall lovingly into each other’s arms.