Bible Commentaries
Psalms 140

Introduction

PSALM 140

:-. The style of this Psalm resembles those of David in the former part of the book, presenting the usual complaint, prayer, and confident hope of relief.

Verse 1

1. evil man—Which of David's enemies is meant is not important.

Verse 2

2-5. This character of the wicked, and the devices planned against the pious, correspond to Psalms 10:7; Psalms 31:13; Psalms 58:4, &c.

Verse 3

3. sharpened . . . like a serpent—not like a serpent does, but they are thus like a serpent in cunning and venom.

Verse 4

2-5. This character of the wicked, and the devices planned against the pious, correspond to Psalms 10:7; Psalms 31:13; Psalms 58:4, &c.

Verse 5

5. snare [and] net—for threatening dangers (compare Psalms 38:12; Psalms 57:6).

Verse 6

6. (Compare Psalms 5:1-12; Psalms 16:2).

Verse 7

7. day of battle—literally, "of armor," that is, when using it.

Verse 8

8. (Compare Psalms 37:12; Psalms 66:7).

lest they exalt themselves—or, they will be exalted if permitted to prosper.

Verse 9

9. Contrasts his head covered by God (Psalms 140:7) with theirs, or (as "head" may be used for "persons") with them, covered with the results of their wicked deeds (Psalms 140:7- :).

Verse 10

10. (Compare Psalms 11:6; Psalms 120:4).

cast into the fire; into deep pits—figures for utter destruction.

Verse 11

11. an evil speaker—or, "slanderer" will not be tolerated ( :-). The last clause may be translated: "an evil (man) He (God) shall hunt," &c.

Verse 12

12. (Compare :-).

Verse 13

13. After all changes, the righteous shall have cause for praise. Such

shall dwell—shall sit securely, under God's protection (Psalms 21:6; Psalms 41:12).