Bible Commentaries
Psalms 59

Introduction

PSALM 59

:-. See on Psalms 59:5, title, and for history, 1 Samuel 19:11, &c. The scope is very similar to that of the fifty-seventh: prayer in view of malicious and violent foes, and joy in prospect of relief.

Verse 1

1. defend me—(Compare Margin).

rise up . . . me—(Compare Psalms 17:7).

Verse 2

2. (Compare Psalms 5:5; Psalms 6:8).

Verse 4

4, 5. prepare, c.—literally, "set themselves as in array."

awake—(Compare Psalms 3:7 Psalms 7:6), appeals to God in His covenant relation to His people (Psalms 7:6- :).

Verse 6

6, 7. They are as ravening dogs seeking prey, and as such,

belch out—that is, slanders, their impudent barkings.

Verse 7

7. for who, say they—For the full expression with the supplied words, compare :-.

Verse 8

8. (Compare Psalms 2:4; Psalms 37:13).

Verse 9

9. By judicious expositors, and on good grounds, this is better rendered, "O my strength, on Thee will I wait" (Psalms 59:17).

defence—(Compare Psalms 59:17- :).

Verse 10

10. prevent me— ( :-).

see my desire—in their overthrow (Psalms 54:7).

enemies—as in Psalms 54:7- :.

Verse 11

11. Slay them not—at once ( :-); but perpetuate their punishment (Genesis 4:12; Numbers 32:13), by scattering or making them wander, and humble them.

Verse 12

12. let them even be . . . taken in their pride—while evincing it—that is, to be punished for their lies, &c.

Verse 13

13. Though delayed for wise reasons, the utter destruction of the wicked must come at last, and God's presence and power in and for His Church will be known abroad (1 Samuel 17:46; Psalms 46:10; Psalms 46:11).

Verse 14

14, 15. Meanwhile let the rapacious dogs prowl, they cannot hurt the pious; yea, they shall wander famished and sleepless.

Verse 15

15. grudge if, &c.—literally, "they shall stay all night," that is, obtain nothing.

Verse 16

16, 17. Contrast the lot of God's servant, who employs his time in God's praise.

sing aloud . . . in the morning—when they retire famishing and disappointed, or it may denote delightful diligence in praise, as in :-.