Psalm 59 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

59:1

Psalm 59:1-17. See on Psalm 57:1, title, and for history, 1 Samuel 19:11, etc. 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.

defend me — (Compare Margin).

rise up me — (Compare Psalm 17:7).

59:2

(Compare Psalm 5:5; Psalm 6:8).

59:4-5

prepare, etc. — literally, “set themselves as in array.”

awake — (Compare Psalm 3:7; Psalm 7:6), appeals to God in His covenant relation to His people (Psalm 9:18).

59:6-7

They are as ravening dogs seeking prey, and as such,

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

59:7

for who, say they — For the full expression with the supplied words, compare Psalm 64:5.

59:8

(Compare Psalm 2:4; Psalm 37:13).

59:9

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

defence — (Compare Psalm 18:3).

59:10

prevent me — (Psalm 21:3).

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

enemies — as in Psalm 5:8.

59:11

Slay them not — at once (Judges 2:21-23); but perpetuate their punishment (Genesis 4:12; Numbers 32:13), by scattering or making them wander, and humble them.

59:12

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

59:13

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; Psalm 46:10, Psalm 46:11).

59:14-15

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

59:15

grudge if, etc. — literally, “they shall stay all night,” that is, obtain nothing.

59:16-17

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 Psalm 30:5.