Jamieson, Fausset and Brown on Psalms 64

PSALM 64

Psa 64:1-10. A prayer for deliverance from cunning and malicious enemies, with a confident view of their overthrow, which will honor God and give joy to the righteous.

1. preserve ... fear--as well as the danger producing it.

2. insurrection--literally, "uproar," noisy assaults, as well as their secret counsels.

3-4. Similar figures for slander (Psa 57:4; 59:7).

bend--literally, "tread," or, "prepared." The allusion is to the mode of bending a bow by treading on it; here, and in Psa 58:7, transferred to arrows.

5. A sentiment here more fully presented, by depicting their deliberate malice.

6. This is further evinced by their diligent efforts and deeply laid schemes.

7. The contrast is heightened by representing God as using weapons like theirs.

8. their ... tongue to fall, &c.--that is, the consequences of their slanders, &c. (compare Psa 10:2; 31:16).

all that see ... away--Their partners in evil shall be terrified.

9-10. Men, generally, will acknowledge God's work, and the righteous, rejoicing in it, shall be encouraged to trust Him (Psa 58:10).