In our steps, i. e. in all our ways. We go from place to place, to rocks, and caves, and woods; but wheresoever we go they are at hand, and ready to surround us; of which see an example, 1 Samuel 23:26. They have set their eyes, to wit, upon or against us, i.e. they have discovered us, and keep their eyes fixed upon us, that we may not escape, or as designing to shoot at us. Bowing down to the earth, i. e. couching and casting themselves down upon the earth, that they may not be discovered, and so may watch the fittest opportunity to surprise us; which sense is favoured by the next verse, and by comparing Psalms 10:10. Otherwise, to cast us down to the earth.
Related Commentaries of Psalms 17:11
Psalms 17:11
11 They have now compassed us in our steps: they have set their eyes bowing down to the earth;