Psalms 6

Ps 6:1-10.

On Neginoth (See on

Ps 4:1,

title) upon Sheminith--the eighth--an instrument for the eighth

key; or, more probably, the bass, as it is contrasted with Alamoth (the

treble,

Ps 46:1)

in

1Ch 15:20, 21.

In deep affliction the Psalmist appeals to God's mercy for relief from

chastisement, which otherwise must destroy him, and thus disable him

for God's service. Sure of a gracious answer, he triumphantly rebukes

his foes.

1. He owns his ill desert in begging a relief from chastisement.

2. I am weak--as a culled plant

(Isa 24:4).

my bones--the very frame.

are vexed--

(Ps 2:5)

--shaken with fear.

3. how long?--shall this be so (compare

Ps 79:5).

but--or, "and."

thou--The sentence is incomplete as expressive of strong emotion.

4. Return--that is, to my relief; or, "turn," as now having His face

averted.

for thy mercies' sake--to illustrate Thy mercy.

5. (Compare

Ps 115:17, 18;

Isa 38:18).

There is no incredulity as to a future state. The contrast is between

this scene of life, and the grave or Sheol, the unseen world of

the dead.

give . . . thanks--or, "praise for mercies."

6. By a strong figure the abundance as well as intensity of grief

is depicted.

7. consumed--or, "has failed," denoting general debility

(Ps 13:3; 38:10).

waxeth old--or, "dim."

grief--mingled with indignation.

8, 9. Assured of God's hearing, he suddenly defies his enemies by

an address indicating that he no longer fears them.

10. and knows they will be disappointed and in their turn (compare

Ps 6:3)

be terror-stricken or confounded.