For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set [him] in safety [from him that] puffeth at him.
Ver. 5. For the oppression of the poor] Whose very oppression, though they complain not, hath a voice, and God will hear it, for he is gracious, Exodus 22:27. He heard Hagar's affliction, though she said nothing, Genesis 16:11; he heareth the young ravens that cry unto him by implication only.
For the sighing of the needy] If it be but their breathing, Lamentations 3:56, God can feel it, but the sighs of his people are effectual orators, Exodus 2:23,25; Exodus 3:7; and their tears he puts in a bottle, Psalms 56:9 .
Now will I arise] sc. In the nick of time, when all seems to be lost. Man's extremity is God's opportunity. Cum duplicarentur lateres, venit Moses. See Isaiah 33:10, Now, now, now.
Saith the Lord] Dixit mihi per prophetiam, Isaiah 22:14 .
From him that puffeth at him] That defieth him, and thinks he can blow him away at a blast; but if God arise only his enemies shall be scattered, as thistle down is by a puff of wind, Psalms 68:1. Some render the text, He will puff at him, that is, the oppressed will now dare to speak freely, who before durst not mute (R. David).