David maketh a vow and profession of godliness.
A Psalm of David.
Title. מזמור לדוד ledavid mizmor.— David being well established on his throne, and settled in his new built palace, resolved to regulate his family and court. He wisely considered, that the example of the prince would have great influence on the morals of the people; and that he could not with any dignity and consistency punish the crimes of others, if he was guilty of the same in his own private conduct, or if he allowed them with impunity in his attendants and courtiers; and therefore, determined that he would severely punish all great and incorrigible offenders, he purposed to be himself a pattern of religion, holiness, and virtue, to his people; and to retain, as far as he could avoid it, none for his domestics and officers, but such as were men of principle, piety, and virtue. The schemes that he formed, and the regulations that he fixed on in this respect, he has transmitted down to us in the following ode; which will do honour to his memory, as a good man and an excellent king, throughout all generations. Dr. Chandler.
Psalms 101:1. I will sing of mercy and judgment— This psalm has a double reference, and describes the manner in which David intended to act as king of Israel towards all his subjects, under their different denominations, as they were good or bad. Towards the faithful in the land, he would shew חסד chesed, constant benignity and favour. Towards the wicked, and such as obstinately violated the laws, he would exercise משׁפט mishpat, judgment; as he would judge and punish them according to their deeds. As this was his fixed purpose, he consecrated this song to God. To thee, O Lord, says he, I will sing; appealing hereby to him for the sincerity of his intention, to make mercy and judgment the great rules of his administration; and, accordingly, it is observed of him, that he executed justice and judgment unto all the people. 2 Samuel 8:15.