Bible Commentaries

Psalm 52:1-9. Compare 1 Samuel 21:1-10; 1 Samuel 22:1-10, for the history of the title. Psalm 52:1 gives the theme; the boast of the wicked over the righteous is vain, for God constantly cares for His people. This is expanded by describing the malice and deceit, and then the ruin, of the wicked, and the happy state of the pious.

mighty man — literally, “hero.” Doeg may be thus addressed, ironically, in respect of his might in slander.

tongue — for self.

mischiefs — evil to others (Psalm 5:9; Psalm 38:12).

working deceitfully — (Psalm 10:7), as a keen, smoothly moving razor, cutting quietly, but deeply.

all-devouring — literally, “swallowing,” which utterly destroy (compare Psalm 21:9; Psalm 35:25).

likewise — or, “so,” “also,” as you have done to others God will do to you (Psalm 18:27). The following terms describe the most entire ruin.

shall … fear — regard with religious awe.

laugh at him — for his folly;

for trusting in riches and being strong in “wickedness.”

wickedness — literally, “mischief” (Psalm 52:2), instead of trusting in God.

the man — literally, “the mighty man,” or “hero” (Psalm 52:1).

The figure used is common (Psalm 1:3; Jeremiah 11:16).

green — fresh.

house, etc. — in communion with God (compare Psalm 27:4, Psalm 27:5).

for ever and ever — qualifies “mercy.”

hast done — that is, what the context supplies, “preserved me” (compare Psalm 22:31).

wait … name — hope in Thy perfections, manifested for my good (Psalm 5:11; Psalm 20:1).

for it is good — that is, Thy name, and the whole method or result of its manifestation (Psalm 54:6; Psalm 69:16).