Psalms 12:5 - Exposition

For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the Lord . The ungodly having been threatened, a promise of assistance is made to the righteous whom they oppress. God declares that, in response to the many calls made upon him ( Psalms 3:7 ; Psalms 7:6 ; Psalms 9:19 ; Psalms 10:12 ), he will "now," at last, "arise"—interpose on behalf of the oppressed, and deliver them (comp. Exodus 3:7 , Exodus 3:8 ). I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him . This is a possible meaning; but it is perhaps better to render, with Hengstenberg and Cheyne, "I will place him in the safety for which he sighs," or "pants."