Psalms 28

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Introduction

An earnest cry for divine aid against his enemies, as being also those of God, is followed by the Psalmist's praise in assurance of a favorable answer, and a prayer for all God's people. (Psa 28:1-9) my rock-- (Psa 18:2, Psa 18:31). be not silent to me--literally, "from me," deaf or inattentive. become like them, &c.--share their fate. go down into the pit--or, "grave" (Psa 30:3).

Verse 2

lift up my hands--a gesture of prayer (Psa 63:4; Psa 141:2). oracle--place of speaking (Exo 25:22; Num 7:89), where God answered His people (compare Psa 5:7).

Verse 3

Draw me not away--implies punishment as well as death (compare Psa 26:9). Hypocrisy is the special wickedness mentioned.

Verse 4

The imprecation is justified in Psa 28:5. The force of the passage is greatly enhanced by the accumulation of terms describing their sin. endeavours--points out their deliberate sinfulness.

Verse 5

Disregard of God's judgments brings a righteous punishment. destroy . . . build . . . up--The positive strengthened by the negative form.

Verse 6

supplications--or, "cries for mercy."

Verse 7

The repetition of "heart" denotes his sincerity.

Verse 8

The distinction made between the people. their strength--and the anointed--may indicate Absalom's rebellion as the occasion.

Verse 9

The special prayer for the people sustains this view. feed them--as a shepherd (Psa 23:1, &c.). Next: Psalms Chapter 29