Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 142

PSALM 142

Psa 142:1-7. Maschil--(See on Psa 32:1, title). When he was in the cave--either of Adullam (1Sa 22:1), or En-gedi (1Sa 24:3). This does not mean that the Psalm was composed in the cave, but that the precarious mode of life, of which his refuge in caves was a striking illustration, occasioned the complaint, which constitutes the first part of the Psalm and furnishes the reason for the prayer with which it concludes, and which, as the prominent characteristic, gives its name.

1. with my voice--audibly, because earnestly.

2. (Compare Psa 62:8).

I poured out my complaint--or, "a sad musing."

3. thou knewest ... path--The appeal is indicative of conscious innocence; knowest it to be right, and that my affliction is owing to the snares of enemies, and is not deserved (compare Psa 42:4; 61:2).

4. Utter desolation is meant.

right hand--the place of a protector (Psa 110:5).

cared for--literally, "sought after," to do good.

5. (Compare Psa 31:14; 62:7).

6. (Compare Psa 17:1).

7. (Compare Psa 25:17).

that I may praise--literally, "for praising," or, "that Thy name may be praised," that is, by the righteous, who shall surround me with sympathizing joy (Psa 35:27).