Psalm 6 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

6:1

Psalm 6:1-10. On Neginoth (See on Psalm 4:1, Title) upon Sheminith - the eighth - an instrument for the eighth key; or, more probably, the bass, as it is contrasted with Alamoth (the treble, Psalm 46:1) in 1 Chronicles 15:20, 1 Chronicles 15:21. In deep affliction the Psalmist appeals to God‘s mercy for relief from chastisement, which otherwise must destroy him, and thus disable him for God‘s service. Sure of a gracious answer, he triumphantly rebukes his foes.

He owns his ill desert in begging a relief from chastisement.

6:2

I am weak — as a culled plant (Isaiah 24:4).

my bones — the very frame.

are vexed — (Psalm 2:5) - shaken with fear.

6:3

how long? — shall this be so (compare Psalm 79:5).

but — or, “and.”

thou — The sentence is incomplete as expressive of strong emotion.

6:4

Return — that is, to my relief; or, “turn,” as now having His face averted.

for thy mercies‘ sake — to illustrate Thy mercy.

6:5

(Compare Psalm 115:17, Psalm 115:18; Isaiah 38:18). There is no incredulity as to a future state. The contrast is between this scene of life, and the grave or Sheol, the unseen world of the dead.

give thanks — or, “praise for mercies.”

6:6

By a strong figure the abundance as well as intensity of grief is depicted.

6:7

consumed — or, “has failed,” denoting general debility (Psalm 13:3; Psalm 38:10).

waxeth old — or, “dim.”

grief — mingled with indignation.

6:8-9

Assured of God‘s hearing, he suddenly defies his enemies by an address indicating that he no longer fears them.

6:10

and knows they will be disappointed and in their turn (compare Psalm 6:3) be terror-stricken or confounded.