Psalms 4

David prays to be heard, Psalm 4:1 ; expostulates with the ungodly, Psalm 4:2 ; exhorts them to turn to God, and make their peace with him, Psalm 4:3-5 ; shows the vain pursuits of men in search of happiness, which he asserts exists only in the approbation of God, Psalm 4:6 , Psalm 4:7 ; commends himself to the Lord, and then quietly takes his repose, Psalm 4:8 .

This Psalm seems to have been composed on the same occasion with the preceding, viz., Absalom's rebellion. It appears to have been an evening hymn, sung by David and his company previously to their going to rest. It is inscribed to the chief Musician upon Neginoth, בנגינות למנצח lamnatstseach binginoth . Probably the first word comes from נצח natsach , to be over, or preside; and may refer to the precentor in the choir. Some suppose that it refers to the Lord Jesus, who is the Supreme Governor, or victorious Person; the Giver of victory. Neginoth seems to come from נגן nagan , to strike; and probably may signify some such instruments as the cymbal, drum, etc., and stringed instruments in general. But there is no certainty in these things. What they mean, or what they were, is known to no man.