Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 10

This hymn celebrates the Lord's rule and triumph over evil. It may also respond to the laments in Psalms 3–7.

Some believe that Psalms 9 and 10 should be read together as one psalm in two parts. This is because Psalm 9 has a title, while Psalm 10 does not.

Despite some missing or inverted letters, the two psalms form an acrostic of the Hebrew alphabet. This means that each line or section begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet.

Other alphabetic acrostics include Psalms 25, 34, 37, 111–112, 119, and 145.

The ancient Greek and Latin translations treat Psalms 9 and 10 as one psalm.

The lament in Psalm 9:13–20 continues in Psalm 10 (see study note on Psalms 9–10). However, the mood shifts from confident statements to anguished questions. The psalmist prays for rescue, trusting that the Lord, as a just king, take care of the needy.

The opening questions set the mood. The Lord does not seem to hear the prayers of his people (Psalm 22:1, 19; see 2 Kings 4:27; Isaiah 1:15).

Wicked and oppressive people might succeed, causing harmful effects. Evil can be as dramatic as the psalmist portrays it here, or it could be more subtle.

The wicked openly defy God with their actions and words (Psalm 17:10; 31:18; 59:12; 73:8; 123:4). Although the Lord will deal with them (Psalm 31:23), they trouble the righteous (see Psalm 5:4–6) before their condemnation and judgment.

Unlike those who have evil desires, the godly wait for justice (Psalm 10:17).

there is no God: See Psalms 10:11; 14:1.

Even though they act wrongly (Psalms 5:9; 28:3; Romans 3:14), the wicked still hope for a future free of trouble like the righteous will enjoy.

The wicked rely on violence (Psalms 11:5; 37:32) and deception (Proverbs 12:6; 23:27–28).

With confidence that the wicked will be held responsible for their deeds and that the Lord will care for the helpless, the psalmist prays intensely for rescue from evil.

The Lord cares for those who suffer. He will notice and punish those who do evil (see Psalm 72:14; 116:15).

• The psalmist prays and calls for a strong curse (see “Prayers for Vengeance” Theme Note).

• Arms represent the ability to wage war (Psalms 18:34; 44:3).

As the true and just king, God will bring the wicked to an end, as he promises (Psalm 1:6).

The psalmist expresses his confidence in the Lord.

People often misuse their power and enslave the very people God wants them to serve (see Psalms 9:19–20; Luke 22:25–26).