Psalms 62 - Introduction

On the phrase in the title to this psalm, “To the chief Musician,” see the notes at the title to Psalms 4:1. On the expression “To Jeduthun,” see the notes at the title to Psalms 39:1. Jeduthun was one of those who were appointed by David to preside over the music of the tabernacle 1 Chronicles 25:1, but it is impossible now to determine why this psalm, and the others where his name is found in the title Psalms 39:1; Psalms 77, were dedicated to him, or committed to his special care. The psalm is, in the title, ascribed to David as the author, but we have no certain knowledge on what occasion it was composed. Its contents agree well with the common supposition that it is to be referred to the time of Absalom, and to the troubles which David experienced in his rebellion.

The psalm, apparently for musical purposes only, is divided into three parts, the divisions being indicated by the word Selah, Psalms 62:4, Psalms 62:8. Another division is indicated in the original by the recurrence of the word אך 'ak - “truly” - at the beginning of Psalms 62:1, Psalms 62:4, Psalms 62:9, as if the mind of the author had been greatly impressed with the importance of the particular sentiment introduced by that word.

The general purpose of the psalm is to lead people to trust in God. The contents are as follows:

I. A statement of the humble trust of the author in God - trust in him as his only hope - as his rock and his refuge, Psalms 62:1.

II. A description of his enemies and of their designs. They devised mischief; they sought to cast down others from their high places; they delighted in falsehood; they made great pretensions of friendship, but they were false in heart, Psalms 62:3.

III. A renewed expression of the confidence of the psalmist in God - repeating what he had said in Psalms 62:1 - and reaffirming his entire trust in the divine protection, Psalms 62:5.

IV. An exhortation to others to trust in God, and not in people; whether people of high or low condition; to trust in nothing else than God: not in power - the power of oppression; not in the robbery of others, or that which was obtained from others by violence; not in riches, in whatever way they might have been acquired, Psalms 62:8.

V. Reasons for trusting in God, Psalms 62:11.

(a) All power belongs to him, Psalms 62:11,

(b) He is merciful or kind, Psalms 62:12,

(c) He is just or equitable, Psalms 62:12.