This Ps. appears to belong to a later age than David's, when the Temple (Psalms 26:8), with its altar (Psalms 26:6), and its public assemblies for worship (Psalms 26:12), was a familiar institution. The writer, conscious of his own uprightness, protests against the idea of being classed with the wicked, and sharing their untimely fate. He appeals at the outset to God's judgment, and at the close preaches the assurance that it will not fail him.
Psalms 26:1-12
1 Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.
2 Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
3 For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.
4 I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.
5 I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the wicked.
6 I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:
7 That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.
8 LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth.
9 Gathera not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men:
10 In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is fullb of bribes.
11 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.
12 My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD.