Jamieson–Fausset–Brown CommentaryPsalms 59

PSALM 59

Psa 59:1-17. See on Psa 57:1, title, and for history, 1Sa 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.

1. defend me--(Compare Margin). rise up ... me--(Compare Psa 17:7).

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

4-5. prepare, &c.--literally, "set themselves as in array." awake--(Compare Psa 3:7; 7:6), appeals to God in His covenant relation to His people (Psa 9:18).

6-7. They are as ravening dogs seeking prey, and as such, belch out--that is, slanders, their impudent barkings.

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

9. By judicious expositors, and on good grounds, this is better rendered, "O my strength, on Thee will I wait" (Psa 59:17). defence--(Compare Psa 18:3).

10. prevent me--(Psa 21:3). see my desire--in their overthrow (Psa 54:7). enemies--as in Psa 5:8.

11. Slay them not--at once (Jud 2:21-23); but perpetuate their punishment (Ge 4:12; Nu 32:13), by scattering or making them wander, and humble them.

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

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 (1Sa 17:46; Psa 46:10, 11).

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

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 Psa 30:5.