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A Commentary, Critical, Practical, and Explanatory on the Old and New Testaments, by Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset and David Brown [1882] at sacred-texts.com


Psalms Chapter 143

Psalms 143:1

psa 143:1

In structure and style, like the preceding (Psalms 104-142), this Psalm is clearly evinced to be David's. It is a prayer for pardon, and for relief from enemies; afflictions, as usual, producing confession and penitence. (Psa 143:1-12)

in thy faithfulness . . . and . . . righteousness--or, God's regard to the claims which He has permitted His people to make in His covenant.

Psalms 143:2

psa 143:2

enter . . . judgment--deal not in strict justice.

shall no . . . justified--or, "is no man justified," or "innocent" (Job 14:3; Rom 3:20).

Psalms 143:3

psa 143:3

The exciting reason for his prayer--his afflictions--led to confession as just made: he now makes the complaint.

as those that have been long dead--deprived of life's comforts (compare Psa 40:15; Psa 88:3-6).

Psalms 143:5

psa 143:5

The distress is aggravated by the contrast of former comfort (Psa 22:3-5), for whose return he longs.

a thirsty land--which needs rain, as did his spirit God's gracious visits (Psa 28:1; Psa 89:17).

Psalms 143:7

psa 143:7

spirit faileth--is exhausted.

Psalms 143:8

psa 143:8

(Compare Psa 25:1-4; Psa 59:16).

the way . . . walk--that is, the way of safety and righteousness (Psa 142:3-6).

Psalms 143:9

psa 143:9

(Compare Psa 31:15-20).

Psalms 143:10

psa 143:10

(Compare Psa 5:8; Psa 27:11).

land of uprightness--literally, "an even land" (Psa 26:12).

Psalms 143:11

psa 143:11

(Compare Psa 23:3; Psa 119:156).

Psalms 143:12

psa 143:12

God's mercy to His people is often wrath to His and their enemies (compare Psa 31:17).

thy servant--as chosen to be such, entitled to divine regard.


Next: Psalms Chapter 145