United Commentaries

Ps.9.1-10.18

This hymn celebrates the Lord’s kingship and victory over evil. It might also serve as a response to the laments of Pss 3–7. Some believe that Pss 9 and 10 should be read together as one psalm in two parts because Ps 9 includes a title and Ps 10 does not, and although several letters are missing or inverted, the two psalms connect as an acrostic of the Hebrew alphabet (other such alphabetic acrostics are Pss 25, 34, 37, 111–112, 119, 145). The ancient Greek and Latin translations treat 9 and 10 as one.

Ps.10.1-18

The lament of 9:13-20 continues in Ps 10 (see study note on Pss 9–10), but the mood changes from confident assertion to anguished questioning. The psalmist prays for rescue, believing that the Lord, as a just king, takes care of the needy.

Ps.10.1

The opening questions set the mood. The Lord does not seem to hear the prayers of his people (22:1, 19; see 2 Kgs 4:27; Isa 1:15).

Ps.10.2-11

Wicked and oppressive people might prosper, leaving ugly consequences. Evil can be as dramatic as the psalmist portrays it here, or it could be more subtle.

Ps.10.2

The wicked brazenly defy God with their acts and speech (17:10; 31:18; 59:12; 73:8; 123:4). Although the Lord will deal with them (31:23), they disturb the righteous (see 5:4-6) prior to their condemnation and judgment.

Ps.10.3

Unlike those who have evil desires, the godly wait for justice (10:17).

Ps.10.4

God is dead: See 10:11; 14:1.

Ps.10.6-7

Despite their evil ways (5:9; 28:3; Rom 3:14), the wicked expect a future free of trouble such as the righteous will enjoy.

Ps.10.8

The wicked rely on outright violence (11:5; 37:32) and deception (Prov 12:6; 23:27-28).

Ps.10.12-15

With confidence that the wicked will be held responsible for their deeds and that the Lord will care for the helpless, the psalmist prays intensely for rescue from evil.

Ps.10.14

Because the Lord cares for the afflicted, he will take note and punish evildoers (see 72:14; 116:15).

Ps.10.15

The psalmist strongly invokes a curse as he prays (see “Prayers for Vengeance” Theme Note).

Arms represent an ability to wage war (18:34; 44:3).

Ps.10.16

As the true and just king, God will bring the wicked to an end, as he promises (1:6).

Ps.10.17-18

The psalmist expresses his confidence in the Lord.

Ps.10.18

Mere people misuse their power and enslave the very people God wants them to serve (see 9:19-20; Luke 22:25-26).