But thou hast cast off - The author of the psalm now commences a description of the existing circumstances of the nation, so strongly in contrast with what had existed in former times when God interposed in their behalf, and when he gave them success. This is properly the commencement of the second part of the psalm, and the description is continued to Psalms 44:16. The Hebrew word here rendered “hast cast off” implies disgust and abhorrence, as the casting away of that which is loathsome. See the word explained in the notes at Psalms 43:2. The reference is to what had occurred at the time when the psalm was written. See introduction to this psalm. The allusion is to the invasion of the land by foreigners; their own discomfiture in their wars; and the calamities consequent on these invasions and defeats.
And put us to shame - By defeat and disgrace. See the word explained above, Psalms 44:7. For the defeat and discomfiture supposed to be referred to, see 2 Chronicles 35:20-27; 2 Chronicles 36:5-6.
And goest not forth with our armies - See the places referred to above. Thus Josiah was defeated and slain; and thus the land was conquered by the invaders.