Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 52

PSALM 52

Psa 52:1-9. Compare 1Sa 21:1-10; 22:1-10, for the history of the title. Psa 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.

1. mighty man--literally, "hero." Doeg may be thus addressed, ironically, in respect of his might in slander.

2. tongue--for self.

mischiefs--evil to others (Psa 5:9; 38:12).

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

4. all-devouring--literally, "swallowing," which utterly destroy (compare Psa 21:9; 35:25).

5. likewise--or, "so," "also," as you have done to others God will do to you (Psa 18:27). The following terms describe the most entire ruin.

6. shall ... fear--regard with religious awe.

laugh at him--for his folly;

7. for trusting in riches and being strong in "wickedness."

wickedness--literally, "mischief" (Psa 52:2), instead of trusting in God.

the man--literally, "the mighty man," or "hero" (Psa 52:1).

8. The figure used is common (Psa 1:3; Jr 11:16).

green--fresh.

house, &c.--in communion with God (compare Psa 27:4, 5).

for ever and ever--qualifies "mercy."

9. hast done--that is, what the context supplies, "preserved me" (compare Psa 22:31).

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

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