The Linked Word Project

Introduction to chapter 28

An earnest cry for divine aid against his enemies, as being also those of God, is followed by the Psalmist's praise in assurance of a favorable answer, and a prayer for all God's people. (Psa 28:1-9)

my rock — (Psa 18:2, Psa 18:31).

be not silent to me — literally, "from me," deaf or inattentive.

become like them, &c. — share their fate.

go down into the pit — or, "grave" (Psa 30:3).

Psalms 28:2

lift up my hands — a gesture of prayer (Psa 63:4; Psa 141:2).

oracle — place of speaking (Exo 25:22; Num 7:89), where God answered His people (compare Psa 5:7).

Psalms 28:3

Draw me not away — implies punishment as well as death (compare Psa 26:9). Hypocrisy is the special wickedness mentioned.

Psalms 28:4

The imprecation is justified in Psa 28:5. The force of the passage is greatly enhanced by the accumulation of terms describing their sin.

endeavours — points out their deliberate sinfulness.

Psalms 28:5

Disregard of God's judgments brings a righteous punishment.

destroy . . . build . . . up — The positive strengthened by the negative form.

Psalms 28:6

supplications — or, "cries for mercy."

Psalms 28:7

The repetition of "heart" denotes his sincerity.

Psalms 28:8

The distinction made between the people.

their strength — and the anointed — may indicate Absalom's rebellion as the occasion.

Psalms 28:9

The special prayer for the people sustains this view.

feed them — as a shepherd (Psa 23:1, &c.).