Psalms 36 - Introduction

A.M. 2962. B.C. 1042.

This Psalm, as the preceding, and many others, seems to have been composed by David during the persecution he suffered from Saul, and probably at, or near, the beginning of it, while Saul outwardly professed kindness to him, but yet gave evident proofs that he desired, and was secretly plotting his ruin. This malice and treachery David here describes, (without naming Saul, toward whom he conducted himself with due reverence,) and opposes thereunto the fidelity and goodness of God, who governs the whole world, and takes care of all his creatures, of beasts as well as men. Whence he inferred, that he would not desert or neglect him, or any that depended on him, and were his faithful servants, as he in an especial manner professed himself to be, and prayed that he might continue. The Psalm has three parts:

(1,) He describes the false and treacherous contrivances of the wicked, Psalms 36:1.

(2,) Extols the mercy, faithfulness, and loving-kindness of the Lord, Psalms 36:5.

(3,) Prays for a continuation thereof to himself and the church, and foretels the downfall of the wicked 10-12.