Ps 140:1-13. The style of this Psalm resembles those of David in the former part of the book, presenting the usual complaint, prayer, and confident hope of relief.
1. evil man--Which of David's enemies is meant is not important.
2-5. This character of the wicked, and the devices planned against the pious, correspond to Ps 10:7 31:13 58:4, &c. 3. sharpened . . . like a serpent--not like a serpent does, but they are thus like a serpent in cunning and venom. 5. snare [and] net--for threatening dangers (compare Ps 38:12 57:6). 6. (Compare Ps 5:1-12 16:2).
7. day of battle--literally, "of armor," that is, when using it.
8. (Compare Ps 37:12 66:7). lest they exalt themselves--or, they will be exalted if permitted to prosper. 9. Contrasts his head covered by God (Ps 140:7) with theirs, or (as "head" may be used for "persons") with them, covered with the results of their wicked deeds (Ps 7:16). 10. (Compare Ps 11:6 120:4). cast into the fire; into deep pits--figures for utter destruction. 11. an evil speaker--or, "slanderer" will not be tolerated (Ps 101:7). The last clause may be translated: "an evil (man) He (God) shall hunt," &c. 12. (Compare Ps 9:4). 13. After all changes, the righteous shall have cause for praise. Such shall dwell--shall sit securely, under God's protection (Ps 21:6 41:12).
