Psalms 35:2-3

-Anthropomorphic" language of remarkable boldness, expanding the idea of Jehovah as "a man of war" (Exodus 15:3: cp. Deuteronomy 32:41 f.).

shield and buckler See note on Psalms 5:12. The mention of both together is part of the poetical picture.

stand up for mine help Rather, Arise as my help. Arise (see notes on Psalms 3:7; Psalms 7:6) in the character and capacity of my helper (Psalms 27:9).

Draw out From the armoury, or more probably from the spear-holder in which it was kept when not in use (Gr. δουροδόκη, Hom. Od. i. 128). The word is used of drawing a sword from its sheath (Exodus 15:9).

stopthe way] All the ancient versions render the word s'goras an imperative; and this gives a good sense. First the enemy are checked in their pursuit; then (Psalms 35:4 ff.) put to flight. But an ellipse of the wayis harsh; the verb shutis not so used elsewhere; and the preposition againstseems to imply attack. Hence many modem commentators regard the word as the name of a weapon not mentioned elsewhere in the O.T., battle-axe(R.V. marg.) or, dirk(Cheyne); the equivalent of the sagarismentioned by Greek historians as the characteristic weapon of Persians, Scythians, and other Asiatics.

that persecute me Rather, that pursue me (R.V.). Cp. 1 Samuel 24:14; &c.

say unto my soul&c. Give me the comforting assurance of thy interposition for my deliverance. Cp. Psalms 3:2; Psalms 3:8 and notes there. The primary meaning of the words is of course temporal not spiritual.