Analysis of Psalms Chapter 59
Psalms Chapter 59 is a powerful cry for help and vindication from King David during a period of severe distress. This chapter is part of the Davidic psalms, often characterized by the dual theme of prayer for God’s deliverance and the assurance of His protection. In this deeply reflective and passionate plea, David seeks God’s intervention against his enemies, offering insights into his profound faith and trust in God’s sovereignty.
Verses 1-2: A Cry for Deliverance
1 Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; defend me from those who rise up against me.
2 Deliver me from the workers of iniquity, and save me from bloody men.
The opening verses set the tone for the entire chapter, signaling urgent distress. David calls upon God to deliver him from his enemies, referring to them as “workers of iniquity” and “bloody men.” These terms highlight not just their harmful actions but their inherently evil nature. The repetition of “deliver me” emphasizes the intensity of David’s plea. This reflects a deep trust in God as the ultimate savior and protector, portraying a personal and intimate relationship with the Divine.
Verses 3-4: The Unjust Persecution
3 For, lo, they lie in wait for my soul: the mighty are gathered against me; not for my transgression, nor for my sin, O LORD.
4 They run and prepare themselves without my fault: awake to help me, and behold.
David describes the nature of his plight, underscoring the unjust and unprovoked nature of the persecution he faces. He insists on his innocence (“not for my transgression, nor for my sin”) and highlights the relentless efforts of his enemies (“they lie in wait for my soul”). This segment not only underscores the baseless nature of the attacks against David but also calls God to witness and judge his innocence. The imagery of enemies “lying in wait” paints a picture of premeditated malice, adding to the urgency of his plea for divine intervention.
Verses 5-6: A Petition for Divine Judgment
5 Thou therefore, O LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel, awake to visit all the heathen: be not merciful to any wicked transgressors. Selah.
6 They return at evening: they make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city.
David calls for God’s active engagement, appealing to God as the “LORD God of hosts” and “the God of Israel.” These titles emphasize God’s supreme authority and covenant relationship with His people. David’s request for God to “awake” suggests a desire for immediate action against his enemies, whom he identifies as “wicked transgressors.” The simile of enemies making “a noise like a dog” underscores their relentless and shameless behavior, as dogs were often viewed with contempt in ancient Israel. This vivid imagery accentuates the menace his adversaries pose and his yearning for God’s judgment.
Verses 7-8: The Vanity of the Wicked
7 Behold, they belch out with their mouth: swords are in their lips: for who, say they, doth hear?
8 But thou, O LORD, shalt laugh at them; thou shalt have all the heathen in derision.
Here, David describes the arrogant and blasphemous nature of his enemies, who “belch out with their mouth” and wield their words like swords. Their dismissive question, “Who doth hear?” indicates their disbelief in divine retribution. Yet David counters this blasphemy with confidence in God’s justice, declaring that the Lord will “laugh” at them and hold them in derision. This contrast between human arrogance and divine sovereignty serves to highlight God’s ultimate control over human affairs and the futility of opposing Him.
Verses 9-10: Assurance in God’s Protection
9 Because of his strength will I wait upon thee: for God is my defence.
10 The God of my mercy shall prevent me: God shall let me see my desire upon mine enemies.
David expresses his trust in God’s protection, referring to God as his “defence” and “the God of my mercy.” These titles reflect David’s reliance on God’s power and grace. The term “prevent me” can be understood as “go before me,” indicating a protective and guiding presence. David’s confidence that God will allow him to “see my desire upon mine enemies” is not about personal vengeance but about witnessing divine justice. This assurance underscores a faith that transcends the immediate crisis, rooted in belief in God’s faithful character.
Verses 11-13: A Call for Discipline and Judgment
11 Slay them not, lest my people forget: scatter them by thy power; and bring them down, O Lord our shield.
12 For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak.
13 Consume them in wrath, consume them, that they may not be: and let them know that God ruleth in Jacob unto the ends of the earth. Selah.
Interestingly, David requests that God not kill his enemies outright but rather “scatter them by thy power.” This request aimed to ensure that the people would not forget God’s acts of deliverance and justice. By asking for a scatter rather than a slay, David seeks not only immediate relief but also a lasting testimony of God’s intervention. He prays that his enemies be caught in their pride and deceitful speech, calling for divine retribution that acknowledges their specific sins. The ultimate goal of David’s petition is the recognition of God’s sovereignty “unto the ends of the earth,” reinforcing the theme of God’s universal dominion.
Verses 14-15: The Persistence of the Wicked
14 And at evening let them return; and let them make a noise like a dog, and go round about the city.
15 Let them wander up and down for meat, and grudge if they be not satisfied.
Here, David returns to the imagery of his enemies as relentless scavengers, likening them again to dogs prowling the city at night. The repetition emphasizes their persevering hostility and their base, almost animalistic nature. By depicting them as wandering for food and unsatisfied, David underlines their insatiable and futile pursuit of evil, highlighting the ultimate emptiness of their efforts.
Verses 16-17: A Song of Praise
16 But I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble.
17 Unto thee, O my strength, will I sing: for God is my defence, and the God of my mercy.
The chapter concludes with a beautiful expression of praise and thanksgiving. Reflecting the faithfulness and mercy of God, David vows to “sing of thy power” and “sing aloud of thy mercy.” This commitment to praise stands in stark contrast to the behavior of his enemies, offering a profound expression of trust and gratitude. The portrayal of God as a “defence and refuge” underscores the security and peace David finds in God’s presence. The repetition of “the God of my mercy” reaffirms God’s unwavering grace and protection, encapsulating the essence of David’s relationship with God.
Conclusion
Psalms Chapter 59 is a poignant depiction of David’s appeal for divine intervention against his enemies. It encompasses themes of injustice, divine retribution, and unwavering faith. Through a deep, introspective prayer, David acknowledges his innocence, depicts the wickedness of his adversaries, and confidently expects God’s intervention and justice.
The chapter moves from a desperate plea to a confident assertion of praise, illustrating the profound relationship David shares with God—a relationship marked by trust, reverence, and an unwavering belief in divine providence. Overall, Psalms Chapter 59 offers a rich tapestry of emotions and insights, reflecting the timeless struggle of the faithful against the forces of injustice and the ultimate victory afforded by unwavering faith in God.