United Commentaries

Ps.51.1-65.13

These psalms of David share a common thread in their reflection on the experience of evil. In Ps 51, the psalmist confesses the evil he has done and asks God’s forgiveness. Psalms 52–64 lament specific evils that David experienced. A song of praise (Ps 65) brings David’s laments to an end.

Ps.61.1-63.11

In these royal prayers, the psalmist longs for God’s presence. All three psalms concern themselves with the king’s security.

Ps.61.1-8

The lamenting psalmist petitions God to protect him and lead him into his presence (61:4-5). He prays for God to extend and protect the king’s rule and makes vows to praise God.

Ps.61.2

the ends of the earth: This expression has the connotation of a cry that comes from a place far away from God.

The psalmist’s heart is overwhelmed with deep anguish.

Ps.61.4

The poet longs for God’s presence and seeks entrance into God’s home on earth for divine protection and care. To be received into God’s sanctuary (literally tent) is the greatest good (see 15:1; 23:6; 24:3-6). The Hebrew word translated sanctuary recalls the Tabernacle and the tent that David built for the Ark (1 Chr 15:1). See also study note on John 1:14.

The shelter of your wings symbolizes God’s protection and care (see Pss 9:9; 17:8).

Ps.61.5

you have heard my vows: The psalmist’s vows might also be a part of ceremonial sacrifices (66:13-15; 76:11; 116:14, 18). He praises and thanks God for his rescue.

The inheritance refers to the promise of the land (see Ps 60), the sacredness of the Temple, the joy of God’s presence (119:111), or any similar reward (16:6; 37:9, 11, 18, 22, 29, 34; 127:3).