Psalms 9:16 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah.

The Lord is known (by) the judgment (which) he executeth. The Hebrew expresses joyful abruptness. 'The Lord maketh Himself known: He is executing judgment.'

The wicked is snared in the work of his own hands - i:e., in the snare which he hath laid for others. "The wicked" - Hebrew, singular, 'the wicked one'. The singular is the more remarkable as the plural succeeds next verse, "The wicked." See 2 Thessalonians 2:8; Revelation 19:20.

Higgaion - i:e., meditation х Higaayown (H1902), from х haagah (H1897) to meditate]. Found also, Psalms 19:14; Psalms 92:3; Lamentations 3:61. It is an appropriate call to reflection here, where he expresses the assurance of God's vindication of His retributive justice in snaring the wicked foes of His people in their own snare. The celaah (H5542) fitly follows, implying a pause in the music, to give time for meditation.

Psalms 9:16

16 The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion.d Selah.