Psalm 64 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

64:1

Psalm 64:1-10. A prayer for deliverance from cunning and malicious enemies, with a confident view of their overthrow, which will honor God and give joy to the righteous.

preserve fear — as well as the danger producing it.

64:2

insurrection — literally, “uproar,” noisy assaults, as well as their secret counsels.

64:3-4

Similar figures for slander (Psalm 57:4; Psalm 59:7).

bend — literally, “tread,” or, “prepared.” The allusion is to the mode of bending a bow by treading on it; here, and in Psalm 58:7, transferred to arrows.

64:4

the perfect — one innocent of the charges made (Psalm 18:23).

fear not — (Psalm 55:19), not regarding God.

64:5

A sentiment here more fully presented, by depicting their deliberate malice.

64:6

This is further evinced by their diligent efforts and deeply laid schemes.

64:7

The contrast is heightened by representing God as using weapons like theirs.

64:8 tongue to fall, etc. — that is, the consequences of their slanders, etc. (compare Psalm 10:2; Psalm 31:16).

all that see away — Their partners in evil shall be terrified.

64:9-10

Men, generally, will acknowledge God‘s work, and the righteous, rejoicing in it, shall be encouraged to trust Him (Psalm 58:10).