Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 43

PSALM 43

Psa 43:1-5. Excepting the recurrence of the refrain, there is no good reason to suppose this a part of the preceding, though the scope is the same. It has always been placed separate.

1. Judge--or, "vindicate" (Psa 10:18).

plead, &c.--(Psa 35:1).

ungodly--neither in character or condition objects of God's favor (compare Psa 4:3).

2. God of my strength--by covenant relation my stronghold (Psa 18:1).

cast me off--in scorn.

because--or, "in," that is, in such circumstances of oppression.

3. light--as in Psa 27:1.

truth--or, "faithfulness" (Psa 25:5), manifest it by fulfilling promises. Light and truth are personified as messengers who will bring him to the privileged place of worship.

tabernacles--plural, in allusion to the various courts.

4. the altar--as the chief place of worship. The mention of the harp suggests the prominence of praise in his offering.