Psalms 140 - Introduction

CXL.

The date of its composition is in no way indicated in this psalm. Its resemblance to Psalms 58, 64 hardly needs to be pointed out. “The close of all three psalms sounds much alike; they agree in the use of rare forms of expression, and their language becomes fearfully obscure in style and sound. when they are directed against the enemies.” Besides the conjecture of Davidic authorship by the Rabbins, further developed by the addition in the Syriac, “when Saul threw the spear,” Manasseh’s reign, the immediate post-exile times, and the Maccabæan age, have all been selected for the situations out of which the psalm sprang. It is most in harmony with its feeling to suppose Israel speaking as a community, or an individual who identifies his own fortunes entirely with that of the better part of the nation. Heathen oppressors and foreign influences are undoubtedly attacked in the poem, and the blessings attending a loyal adherence to the religious and national traditions supply the cheerful and confident tone in which it ends. The rhythm is fine and varied.

Title. — See Psalms 4.