Psalms 17:9 - Exposition

From the wicked that oppress me ; or, lay me waste — treat me as invaders treat an enemy's territory (see Isaiah 15:1 ). From my deadly enemies, who compass me about; literally, my enemies in soul — those who in heart and mind are wholly set against me. When hunted by Saul upon the mountains, David was often "compassed about" with foes ( 1 Samuel 23:14 , 1 Samuel 23:15 , 1 Samuel 23:26 ; 1 Samuel 26:20 ).