Psalms 6 · Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
PSALM 6 Psa 6:1-10 . On Neginoth (See on Psa 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, Psa 46:1 ) in 1Ch 15:20 , 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. 1. He owns his ill desert in begging a relief from chastisement.
2. I am weak-- as a culled plant ( Is 24:4 ). my bones-- the very frame. are vexed-- ( Psa 2:5 )--shaken with fear.
3. how long?-- shall this be so (compare Psa 79:5 ). but-- or, "and." thou-- The sentence is incomplete as expressive of strong emotion.
4. Return-- that is, to my relief; or, "turn," as now having His face averted. for thy mercies' sake-- to illustrate Thy mercy.
5. (Compare Psa 115:17 , 18 ; Is 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. By a strong figure the abundance as well as intensity of grief is depicted.
7. consumed-- or, "has failed," denoting general debility ( Psa 13:3 ; 38:10 ). waxeth old-- or, "dim." grief-- mingled with indignation.
8-9. Assured of God's hearing, he suddenly defies his enemies by an address indicating that he no longer fears them.