Psalms 43:1 - Matthew Poole's English Annotations on the Holy Bible

PSALM 43 THE ARGUMENT This Psalm seems to have been composed by the same author, and upon the same occasion with the former. David, praying against his fierce and crafty enemies, Psalms 43:1; and to be restored to the temple, Psalms 43:2,3; promiseth to serve God joyfully, Psalms 43:4. He encourageth his soul to trust in God, Psalms 43:5. Judge me; or, judge or give sentence for me, as this phrase is used, Psalms 26:1, and elsewhere. Ungodly, or unmerciful, i.e. cruel or inhuman; for it is a meiosis. Nation; so he calls the company of his enemies for their great numbers, and because they were the far greatest part, and almost the whole body of the nation. Deceitful and unjust; who covereth his wicked designs with fair and false pretences; which sort of men are hateful to thee, and to all good men. Man; either Saul; or rather, Ahithophel or Absalom. For he speaks of the holy hill of Zion, Psalms 43:3, which was not so till after Saul's time. Or man may be put collectively for the men of that time.