Verses 1-10

This is a Ps. on a familiar theme. The Psalmist's life is in danger. He describes the injurious words and malicious plans of his enemies, and foretells how their overthrow will be a warning to all who see it, and a new ground for the righteous to rejoice in God. The same figure (shooting an arrow) is employed both for the assaults of the wicked and for their discomfiture by God.

4. In secret] RV 'in secret places.' The perfect] the upright man: cp. Psalms 37:37. Fear not] regard neither God nor man.

5. Matter] RV 'purpose.' They say, Who shall see them?] cp. Psalms 10:11.

6. They accomplish, etc.] better, 'we have perfected, say they, a careful device.'

8. RV 'So shall they be made to stumble, their own tongue being against them,' their evil words coming back upon themselves. See them] 'see their desire upon them': cp. Psalms 54:7.

Flee away] RV 'wag the head,' in scorn: see Psalms 22:7; Jeremiah 48:27.

9. Note the contrast with Psalms 28:5.