Matthew Poole and continuators on Psalms 31:11

11. I was a reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours , and a fear to mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me .

(i. e.) The matter of their Reproaches, and Scorns. This, said they, is David, anointed to be King of Israel, a goodly Monarch indeed, forsaken by God and Men, and in a perishing and desperate Condition. He pretends great Piety to God, and Loyalty to Saul, but in Truth he is a great Impostour, and a Traitor, and Rebel to his King.

Which aggravates their sin, and his Misery, Partly, because they were obliged by the Laws of Neighbourhood, to perform all friendly Offices to him: and Partly, because they were daily Witnesses of his Integrity, and therefore sinned against their own Knowledge.

Or, a Terror. They were afraid to give me any Countenance or Assistance, or to be seen in my Company; being warned by Abimelech's punishment for it, 1 Sam. 22.

Either, loathing me as a Monster of men, and an unlucky Spectacle, and such a Villain as mine Enemies represented me, and they believed me to be: Or, to prevent their own Danger and Ruine, which might be occasioned by it.

Marginal references: [illegible: 1 word] 19: 13: [illegible: 1 word] 38. 11. & [illegible: 1 word] [illegible: 1+ letters] ▪ 18.