Psalms 59 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
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 ).
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.
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 .