Worthy.Bible » STRONG » Psalms » Chapter 56 » Verse 8-11

Psalms 56:8-11 King James Version with Strong's Concordance (STRONG)

8 Thou tellest H5608 my wanderings: H5112 put H7760 thou my tears H1832 into thy bottle: H4997 are they not in thy book? H5612

9 When H3117 I cry H7121 unto thee, then shall mine enemies H341 turn H7725 back: H268 this I know; H3045 for God H430 is for me.

10 In God H430 will I praise H1984 his word: H1697 in the LORD H3068 will I praise H1984 his word. H1697

11 In God H430 have I put my trust: H982 I will not be afraid H3372 what man H120 can do H6213 unto me.

Commentary on Psalms 56 Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible


PSALM 56

Ps 56:1-13. Upon Jonath-elem-rechokim—literally, "upon the dove of silence" of distant places; either denoting a melody (see on Ps 9:1) of that name, to which this Psalm was to be performed; or it is an enigmatical form of denoting the subject, as given in the history referred to (1Sa 21:11, &c.), David being regarded as an uncomplaining, meek dove, driven from his native home to wander in exile. Beset by domestic and foreign foes, David appeals confidently to God, recites his complaints, and closes with joyful and assured anticipations of God's continued help.

1, 2. would swallow—literally, "pants as a raging beast" (Ac 9:1).

2. enemies—watchers (Ps 54:5).

most High—As it is not elsewhere used absolutely for God, some render the word here, arrogantly, or proudly, as qualifying "those who fight," &c.

3. in—or literally, "unto."

thee—to whom he turns in trouble.

4. in God … his word—By His grace or aid (Ps 60:12; 108:13), or, "I will boast in God as to His word"; in either case His word is the special matter and cause of praise.

flesh—for mankind (Ps 65:2; Isa 31:3), intimating frailty.

5, 6. A vivid picture of the conduct of malicious enemies.

7. Shall they escape? &c.—or better, "Their escape is by iniquity."

cast … people—humble those who so proudly oppose Thy servant.

8. God is mindful of his exile and remembers his tears. The custom of bottling the tears of mourners as a memorial, which has existed in some Eastern nations, may explain the figure.

9. God is for me—or, "on my side" (Ps 118:6; 124:1, 2); hence he is sure of the repulse of his foes.

12. I will render praises—will pay what I have vowed.

13. The question implies an affirmative answer, drawn from past experience.

falling—as from a precipice.

before God—in His favor during life.