Psalms 61:1

PSALM LXI

The psalmist's prayer for those who were banished from their

own land, and from the ordinances of God, 1, 2.

He praises God for his past mercies, 3;

purposes to devote himself entirely to his service, 4, 5.

He prays for the king, 6, 7;

and promises to perform his vow to the Lord daily, 8.

NOTES ON PSALM LXI

The title, To the chief Musician upon Neginath, נגינת. The verb נגן nagan signifies to strike or play on a musical instrument, especially one of the stringed kind; but the נגינות neginoth, as it is written in about thirty MSS., may signify either the players on the instruments or the instruments themselves. The Psalm appears to have been written about the close of the captivity, and the most judicious interpreters refer it to that period. On this supposition the notes are formed.

Verse Psalms 61:1. Hear my cry, O God] In the midst of a long and painful captivity, oppressed with suffering, encompassed with cruel enemies and insolent masters, I address my humble prayer to THEE, O my God.