Verse 1 standing The position of the Lord (Adonai) is significant. The altar speaks properly of mercy because of judgement executed upon an interposed sacrifice, but when altar and sacrifice are despised the altar becomes a place of judgment. Cf. John 12:31. Verse 2 hell Heb. "Sheol," (See Scofield "Habakkuk 2:5") . Verse 9 sift (See Scofield "Psalms 72:1") .