Psa 35:1-3, 17, 19, 22-25 | Clarke | e4.org | PSALM XXXV The psalmist, in great straits, prays for his personal safety , 1-3; and for the confusion of his enemies , 4-8; expresses has confidence in God , 9, 10; mentions his kindness to those who had rewarded him evil for his good , 11-16; appeals to God against them , 17-26; prays for those who befriended him; and praises God for his goodness , 27, 28. NOTES ON PSALM XXXV There is nothing in the title worthy of remark. The Psalm is simply attributed to David, and was most probably of his composing; and refers to the time of his persecution by Saul and his courtiers. The Syriac says it was composed when the Idumeans attacked David. The Arabic says it is a prophecy concerning the incarnation, and concerning the things practised against Jeremiah by the people . Some think that our Lord's sufferings are particularly pointed out here; and Bishop Horsley thinks that verses 11 to 16 apply more literally and exactly to Christ than to any other whomsoever. Verse 1. Plead my cause, O Lord ] Literally, Contend, Lord, with then that contend with me . The word is often used in a forensic or law sense.

‏ Psalms 35:1-3

PSALM XXXV

The psalmist, in great straits, prays for his personal safety,

1-3;

and for the confusion of his enemies, 4-8;

expresses has confidence in God, 9, 10;

mentions his kindness to those who had rewarded him evil for his good, 11-16;

appeals to God against them, 17-26;

prays for those who befriended him; and praises God for his goodness, 27, 28.

NOTES ON PSALM XXXV

There is nothing in the title worthy of remark. The Psalm is simply attributed to David, and was most probably of his composing; and refers to the time of his persecution by Saul and his courtiers. The Syriac says it was composed when the Idumeans attacked David. The Arabic says it is a prophecy concerning the incarnation, and concerning the things practised against Jeremiah by the people. Some think that our Lord's sufferings are particularly pointed out here; and Bishop Horsley thinks that verses 11 to 16 apply more literally and exactly to Christ than to any other whomsoever.

Verse 1. Plead my cause, O Lord] Literally, Contend, Lord, with then that contend with me. The word is often used in a forensic or law sense.

Verse 2. Take hold of shield and buckler] Let them be discomfited in battle who are striving to destroy my life. It is by the shield and buckler of others, not any of his own, that God overthrows the enemies of his people. This is spoken merely after the manner of men.

Verse 3. Say unto my soul, I am thy salvation.] Give me an assurance that thou wilt defend both body and soul against my adversaries.

‏ Psalms 35:17

Verse 17. My darling] yechidathi, my only one, Ps 22:20. My united one, or He that is alone. Perhaps this may relate to Christ. See Clarke on Ps 22:20.

‏ Psalms 35:19

Verse 19. That are mine enemies] Saul and his courtiers.

‏ Psalms 35:22-25

Verse 22. This thou hast seen] I have no need to adduce evidences of these wrongs; thou, to whom I appeal, hast seen them. Therefore,

Verse 23. Stir up thyself, and awake to my judgment] I have delivered my cause into thy hand, and appeal to thee as my Judge; and by thy decision I am most willing to abide.

Verse 24. Judge me, O Lord my God] The manner of his appeal shows the strong confidence he had in his own innocence.

Verse 25. Swallowed him up.] billaanuhu, we have gulped him down.