Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · Psalms Kapitel 140

Ps 140:1-13.

The style of this Psalm resembles those of David in the former part of the book, presenting the usual complaint, prayer, and confident hope of relief.

1. evil man--Which of David's enemies is meant is not important.

2-5. This character of the wicked, and the devices planned against the pious, correspond to

Ps 10:7; 31:13; 58:4,

&c.

3. sharpened . . . like a serpent--not like a serpent does, but they are thus like a serpent in cunning and venom.

5. snare [and] net--for threatening dangers (compare

Ps 38:12; 57:6).

6. (Compare

Ps 5:1-12; 16:2).

7. day of battle--literally, "of armor," that is, when using it.

8. (Compare

Ps 37:12; 66:7).

lest they exalt themselves--or, they will be exalted if permitted to prosper.

9. Contrasts his head covered by God

(Ps 140:7)

with theirs, or (as "head" may be used for "persons") with them, covered with the results of their wicked deeds

(Ps 7:16).

10. (Compare

Ps 11:6; 120:4).

cast into the fire; into deep pits--figures for utter destruction.

11. an evil speaker--or, "slanderer" will not be tolerated

(Ps 101:7).

The last clause may be translated: "an evil (man) He (God) shall hunt," &c.

12. (Compare

Ps 9:4).

13. After all changes, the righteous shall have cause for praise. Such

shall dwell--shall sit securely, under God's protection

(Ps 21:6; 41:12).