Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 43

Verses 1-5

PSALM 43

Ps 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" (Ps 10:18).

plead, &c.—(Ps 35:1).

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

Verses 2

2. God of my strength—by covenant relation my stronghold (Ps 18:1).

cast me off—in scorn.

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

Verses 3

3. light—as in Ps 27:1.

truth—or, "faithfulness" (Ps 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.

Verses 4

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

Jamieson, Fausset & Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory (1871). Public domain.