The psalm, likely from the Asaphite singers, reflects Jerusalem's shock over Israel's fall of ten tribes to Assyria between 734-722 bc, leaving Judah exposed. It expresses a plea for help using the refrain ‘Restore us …’ and a vine simile, emphasizing unity beyond north-south rivalries. An invitation from Hezekiah to the northern tribes for Passover demonstrates solidarity, but his rebuff indicates Israelite stubbornness, contributing to the judgment lamented in the psalm.