Commentary Critical And Explanatory On The Whole Bible

Ps 3:1-8. For the historical occasion mentioned, compare 2Sa 15:1-17:29. David, in the midst of great distress, with filial confidence, implores God's aid, and, anticipating relief, offers praise.

1. Lord ... increased -- The extent of the rebellion (2Sa 15:13) surprises and grieves him.

2. say of my soul -- that is, "of me" (compare Ps 25:3). This use of "soul" is common; perhaps it arose from regarding the soul as man's chief part.

no help ... in God -- rejected by Him. This is the bitterest reproach for a pious man, and denotes a spirit of malignant triumph.

Selah -- This word is of very obscure meaning. It probably denotes rest or pause, both as to the music and singing, intimating something emphatic in the sentiment (compare Ps 9:16).

3. But -- literally, "and" (Ps 2:6). He repels the reproach by avowing his continued trust.

shield -- a favorite and often-used figure for protection.

my glory -- its source.

lifter up of mine head -- one who raises me from despondency.

4. cried ... heard -- Such has been my experience. The latter verb denotes a gracious hearing or answering.

out of -- or, "from."

his holy hill -- Zion (Ps 2:6). His visible earthly residence.

5. the Lord sustained me -- literally, "will sustain me," as if his language or thought when he laid down, and the reason of his composure.

6. ten thousands of people -- or, "myriads," any very great number (compare 2Sa 16:18).

7. Arise, O Lord -- God is figuratively represented as asleep to denote His apparent indifference (Ps 7:6). The use of "cheekbone" and "teeth" represents his enemies as fierce, like wild beasts ready to devour (Ps 27:2), and smiting their cheekbone (1Ki 22:24) denotes violence and insult.

thou hast broken -- God took his part, utterly depriving the enemy of power to injure.

8. An ascription of praise to a delivering God, whose favor is an efficient benefit.