2 Samuel 22:41-46

2 Samuel 22:41. “The neck,” or “the back.” Made them turn to flee. (See Exodus 23:27.)

2 Samuel 22:43. “As the dust.” “This language may be only expressive of that contempt in which ancient conquerors were wont to indulge when speaking of their foes. But it is literally true that they might soon be reduced as small as dust. The bodies of slain enemies that lie exposed without the rites of burial on the field or streets, soon become the prey of dogs or vultures, and the bones, stripped of all flesh, blanch in the warm climate, where they are not long in being crumbled to dust, and so trodden under the feet of their masters.” (Jamieson.)

2 Samuel 22:44. “Strivings,” or contests. This may especially refer to the internal conflicts in David’s own kingdom. (So Keil and Alexander.) “The closing words of this psalm, and its obvious connection with the promises in 2 Samuel 7, show that the anticipation of the last clause of the psalm was not limited to David’s personal triumphs, either at home or abroad, but meant to comprehend the victories of his successors, and especially of Him in whom the royal line was at once to end and be perpetuated.” (Alexander.)

2 Samuel 22:45. “The stranger.” Or, “the sons of outland,” i.e., foreigners. “Submit.” Literally, &c., i.e., yield a feigned obedience. “As soon as they hear.” This may mean, “they will submit at the mere report, or when they hear the command they will obey,” implying personal presence.