Psalms 10
DOYLYVer. 2. — the poor: ] This word here means, the humble, the afflicted, and helpless. Bp. Wilson.
- For the wicked boasteth &c. The first part of this verse points out that alarming symptom of a reprobate mind, a disposition to exult and glory in those lusts which are the shame and disgrace of human nature, whether the world or the flesh be their object. The latter clause is differently rendered, as implying either that “the wicked blesseth the covetous, whom God abhorreth,” or, that “the wicked, being covetous, or oppressive, blesseth himself, and abhorreth the Lord.” Either way, an oppressing, griping, worldly spirit is characterized, with its direct opposition to the Spirit of God, which teaches that sin is to be confessed with shame and sorrow; that in God alone man is to make his boast; and that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Bp. Horne.
Psalms 10:5
- His ways are always grievous; &c.] That is, always troublesome and injurious to all about him.
Psalms 10:12
- When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: ] When He calls his enemies to account for the blood of his people, which they unjustly shed or coveted. S. Clarke.
To “make inquisition for blood,” is not to enquire after blood spilt, but to sit as inquisitor or judge on all capital crimes, where the blood of the offender is due to justice. “Them” refers to the “humble” or afflicted, at the end of the verse. Mudge.
Psalms 10:14
- — in the gates of the daughter of Zion: ] That is, in the solemn assemblies of thy people, the inhabitants of Zion. S. Clarke.
Psalms 10:15
- — in the pit] See the note on Psalm vii. 15.
Psalms 10:16
- — Higgaion.] A meditation, or a fit subject of meditation. Fenwick.
Or possibly the word here means an interlude of soft whispering notes, as Selah another of bolder and louder ones. Mudge, Dr. Kennicott.
Psalms 10:17
- — into hell.] By the word “hell” in this place is meant the region of the dead; and the Psalmist seems to foretel that the wicked will descend to the grave by some great and signal overthrow. Mudge, Edwards.
The Psalmist here teaches us, that God will reign for ever, and will judge the world with righteousness; that He will render to the wicked according to their works; that all those who forget Him shall perish; that He will not suffer the wicked always to prevail; that He
is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah.