Psalm IV
Ver. 1-8. On Ncginolh, i. e., stringed instruments, as thft kind of musical accompaniment. On other parts of title.cl Introduction. The historical occasion was probably the same as that of the foregoing. The writer, praying for further relief, admonishes his enemies of the vanity ot
PrayCI in Sickness. PSALMS V—VIII. Profession of Innoceiicy.
Psalm 79. 5). but-or, and. tliou—the sentence Is incomplete as expressive of strong emotion. 4. Rettirn— i. e.,
attiicking God's servant, exhorts them to repentance, and avows his coutidence and peace in God's favour.
1. Hear—as Ps. 3. 4. God my rlgliteoiisjiess —or, ray righteous Goii, as my holy hill (Psalm 2. 6), who will act toward me on righteous principles, tlioxi liast enlarged —expresses relief aflforded in opposition to distress, which
to my relief—or, turn, as now having His face averted, for tliy mercies' sake—to illustrate thy mercy. 5. (Cf. Psalm
115. 17, IS; Isaiah 38. 18.) There is no incredulity as lo a future state. The contrast is between this scene of life, and tlie grave or sheol, the unseen world of the dead, give
is expressed by a word denoting straits or pressure. Past favour is a ground of hope for future. 3. sons of men Men of note or prominence (cf. 2 Chronicles 21. 9). turn my glory—or, royal dignity, to gliame — or reproach, vanity—a foolish and hopeless entei'prise (Psalm 2. 1). leasing—a lie. 3. godly—an ol)ject as well as subject of Divine favour (cf. Psalm 10-5. U, lo). *. stand in awe—
. . . tlianks—or, praise for mercies. 6. By a strong Jigure the abundance as well as intensity of grief is dei>icted. 7. consumed—or, has failed, denoting general debility (Psalm 13. 3; 38. 10). waxetU old—or, dim. grief-mingled with indignation. 8, 9. Assured of God's hearing, he suddenly defies his enemies by an address indicating that he no longer fears them; 10, and knows they will be disappointed and in their turn (cf. v. 3) be terror-stricken or confounded. PSALM VII.
(Epliesians 4. 26), from Septuagint—he angry. Both clauses are qualified by not. 5. Not only repent, but manifest penitence by sacrifices of righteousne.ss or rigliteous sac-
rifices, &c. 6, 7. contrast true with vain confidence.
ligl»t of coMntenance—figure for favour (Numbers 6. 26
Ver. 1-17. Shiggaion—a plaintive song or elegy. Though obscure in details, this title seems to intimate that the occasion of this Psalm was some event in David's persecution by Saul. He prays for relief, because he is innocent, and God will be glorified in his vindication. He thus passes to the celebration of God's righteous government, in defending the upright and punishing tlie wicked, whose malignant devices will result in their own ruin; and, confident of God's aid, closes with rejoicing.