1 To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David; when Saul sent, and they watched the house to kill him. Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me.
2 Deliver me from the workers of iniquity, and save me from bloody men.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Overview of Psalm 59
Psalm 59 is a poetic lament attributed to David, expressing his distress and plea for deliverance from his enemies. The psalm is characterized by its vivid imagery and emotional intensity, reflecting the urgency of David’s situation. The context of this psalm is believed to be during the time when Saul sent men to watch David’s house in order to kill him.
Structure of the Psalm
The chapter can be divided into distinct sections, each serving a specific purpose in conveying the overall message:
- Verses 1-5: A Cry for Help
David begins by calling upon God for deliverance from his enemies. He acknowledges the threat they pose and emphasizes his innocence.
- Verses 6-8: The Nature of His Enemies
In these verses, David describes the wickedness of his adversaries, highlighting their relentless pursuit and malicious intentions.
- Verses 9-13: Confidence in God’s Deliverance
David expresses his trust in God’s power to save him, contrasting the strength of his enemies with the might of God.
- Verses 14-17: A Declaration of Praise
The psalm concludes with a proclamation of praise for God’s steadfast love and protection, reaffirming David’s faith in God’s justice.
Thematic Elements
- Divine Protection
The theme of seeking refuge in God is prevalent throughout the psalm. David recognizes that true safety comes from the Lord, who is portrayed as a fortress and a source of strength.
- Innocence and Righteousness
David emphasizes his innocence, pleading for justice against those who unjustly seek to harm him. This highlights the biblical principle of God defending the righteous.
- The Nature of Evil
The psalm vividly depicts the characteristics of the wicked, illustrating their deceit, aggression, and lack of moral integrity.
- Faith and Trust
David’s unwavering faith in God’s ability to deliver him serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in divine providence during times of distress.
Imagery and Language
The language used in Psalm 59 is rich with metaphor and vivid imagery:
- Animals as Symbols
David likens his enemies to howling dogs, emphasizing their ferocity and relentless pursuit.
- Military Imagery
References to ambush and attack illustrate the seriousness of the threat David faces, creating a sense of urgency and danger.
- Divine Imagery
God is depicted as a powerful warrior who will act on behalf of the righteous, reinforcing the belief in divine justice.
Conclusion
Psalm 59 serves as a profound expression of David’s struggles against his enemies, intertwining themes of trust, justice, and divine protection. Through its structured plea, vivid imagery, and emotional depth, the psalm not only reflects David’s personal experience but also resonates with anyone facing adversity, encouraging reliance on God’s faithfulness and power.
