Psalms 10

In the Septuagint and Vulgate this psalm is united to the preceding, but for what reason is not clear. Most modern interpreters prefer to consider them as pairs, from the resemblance of various expressions, their similar marks of antiquity, and the apparent traces in Psalm x of an attempt to supplement the imperfect alphabetical arrangement of Psalms 9:0. But these coincidences are too vague and inconclusive to overbear the internal evidence of their being two separate and independent productions. They cannot belong to the same occasion. Psalm ix is a triumph; Psalm x is a lamentation. Psalm ix presents the Hebrew power as dominant, and their enemies as prostrate; Psalm x places the wicked in power, and the covenant people in oppression and reproach. In Psalm ix the conquered enemies of Israel are the גוים , ( goyim,) the gentile nations; in Psalm x the enemy is still the goyim, (Psalms 10:16,) who appear to have obtained a foothold in the land to distress the Hebrew family. In Psalm ix the enemy is marshalled in war; in Psalms 10:0 he has intrenched himself in politics and civil life. The psalm is anonymous and without title, and, though it suits well enough David’s style, it would also class well with the Korahite or Asaphic effusions. The evils complained of are not such as a vigorous administration could remedy, but such as baffled and defied the sovereign power of the State. There is no time of David’s reign answerable to the internal state of Israel as herein described. It better suits their later condition in the period of the captivity.

The principal divisions are two: Psalms 10:1-11, a description of the character and practice of the writer’s enemies; Psalms 10:12-18, a prayer for their instant overthrow, with a confident anticipation of the result.