3:1–2 · The prophet’s prayer:Habakkuk’s prayer in this chapter is actually a prayer psalm. The Hebrew word for prayer used here designates five psalms (Psalms 17; 86; 90; 102; 142) and is also used of the collected psalms of David (Ps. 72:20). Habakkuk’s prayer psalm is genuinely personal and yet designed for the sacred liturgy, as further indicated by the final footnote at the end of the chapter and the recurring use of the musical term selah, probably designating a musical interlude. The phrase “On shigionoth” is perhaps best understood as referring to a song that can be set to several tunes. Habakkuk recalls God’s past mighty deeds on Israel’s behalf and pleads with God that, as he now brings Judah to judgment, he will nonetheless deal with his people in mercy.

3:3–15 · The prophet’s …