Psalms 5

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

Introduction

Upon Nehiloth--flutes or wind instruments. The writer begs to be heard, on the ground of God's regard for His covenant-people and true worshippers as contrasted with His holy hatred to the wicked. He prays for divine guidance, on account of his watchful, malignant, and deceitful enemies; and for their destruction as being also God's enemies. At the same time he expresses his confidence that God will extend aid to His people. (Psa 5:1-12) meditation--moanings of that half-uttered form to which deep feeling gives rise--groanings, as in Rom 8:26-27.

Verse 2

Hearken--incline the ear (Psa 10:17; compare Psa 61:2) --give close attention. my cry--that is, for help (Psa 61:2; Jer 8:19). my King--thus by covenant relation interested in my cause.

Verse 3

direct--literally, "set in order," as the showbread was placed or set in order (Exo 40:23).

Verse 4

For, &c.--God only regards sincere worshippers. evil--or, "the evil man." dwell--lodge, remain under protection.

Verse 5

foolish--vainglorious and insolent. iniquity--especially such as denotes a negation, or defect, that is, of moral principle.

Verse 6

leasing--a lie. the bloody . . . man--literally, "man of blood"--murderer.

Verse 7

But--as in Psa 2:6, literally, "and." house-- (Ch1 9:23), the tabernacle. temple--literally, "palace," applied to God's residence, the Holy of Holies (Sa1 3:3; Sa2 22:7); the inner part of the tabernacle. toward--not in; the high priest alone was allowed to enter.

Verse 8

enemies--literally, "watchers" (Psa 27:11), hence special need of guidance. in thy righteousness--an attribute implying faithfulness in promises as well as threatenings. make thy way straight--that is, make the way of providence plain.

Verse 9

The wicked are not reliable because by nature they are full of wickedness, or literally, "wickednesses," of every kind (Rom 8:7). sepulchre--a dwelling-place of corruption, emitting moral putridness. flatter--or, "make smooth." their tongue--speaks deceitfully.

Verse 10

Destroy--or, "condemn" them to destruction as guilty.

Verse 11

defendest--(compare Margin). love thy name--Thy manifested perfections (Psa 9:10).

Verse 12

with favour--or, "acceptance," alluding to the favor shown to an acceptable offering and worshipper (Lev 7:18; Lev 19:7). shield--(compare Psa 3:3). Next: Psalms Chapter 6