Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Psalms 6

Verses 1-10

PSALM 6

Ps 6:1-10. On Neginoth (See on Ps 4:1, title) upon Sheminith—the eighth—an instrument for the eighth key; or, more probably, the bass, as it is contrasted with Alamoth (the treble, Ps 46:1) in 1Ch 15:20, 21. In deep affliction the Psalmist appeals to God's mercy for relief from chastisement, which otherwise must destroy him, and thus disable him for God's service. Sure of a gracious answer, he triumphantly rebukes his foes.

1. He owns his ill desert in begging a relief from chastisement.

Verses 2

2. I am weak—as a culled plant (Isa 24:4).

my bones—the very frame.

are vexed—(Ps 2:5)—shaken with fear.

Verses 3

3. how long?—shall this be so (compare Ps 79:5).

but—or, "and."

thou—The sentence is incomplete as expressive of strong emotion.

Verses 4

4. Return—that is, to my relief; or, "turn," as now having His face averted.

for thy mercies' sake—to illustrate Thy mercy.

Verses 5

5. (Compare Ps 115:17, 18; Isa 38:18). There is no incredulity as to a future state. The contrast is between this scene of life, and the grave or Sheol, the unseen world of the dead.

give … thanks—or, "praise for mercies."

Verses 6

6. By a strong figure the abundance as well as intensity of grief is depicted.

Verses 7

7. consumed—or, "has failed," denoting general debility (Ps 13:3; 38:10).

waxeth old—or, "dim."

grief—mingled with indignation.

Verses 8

8, 9. Assured of God's hearing, he suddenly defies his enemies by an address indicating that he no longer fears them.

Verses 9-10

10. and knows they will be disappointed and in their turn (compare Ps 6:3) be terror-stricken or confounded.

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