Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 43

These psalms, like Psalms 9 and 10, form a unit with a lament and a bittersweet refrain of hope (Psalm 42:5, 11; 43:5). Many Hebrew manuscripts combine these two psalms into one.

The historical context is unclear; these psalms might represent God's people in exile, expressing loyalty to God while he punishes them for their ongoing disobedience.

The psalmist longs for the fellowship with God he had in Jerusalem (Psalm 42:4); his memories only deepen his discouragement. As the psalmist cries out to God, he remembers God's love and faithfulness (Psalm 42:8), which leads him to ask for vindication (43:1–4).

The psalmist turns to the Lord for rescue from his troubles, for guidance, for restoration, and for vindication.

rejected me: Other psalms also ask if God has rejected his people (Psalm 44:9, 23; 60:1, 10; 74:1; 77:7; 88:14; 89:38; 108:11).

• This prayer for God's redemption sees light and truth as guides (see Psalms 18:25–29; 27:1; 85:10–13; 89:14–18; see also 119:105; John 3:19; Ephesians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:5–7).

• The temple on the mountain in Jerusalem symbolized God's holy presence among his people (Psalms 15:1; 43:3; 99:5, 9; 132:7).

This verse is repeated in Psalm 42:5 and 11.