Psalm 28/Notes/Lexical.v. 5.162357
From Psalms: Layer by Layer
- To regard (בין) is often "used to convey the idea of giving attention to God’s deeds."[1] In Ps 28:5, do not regard (לא בין) "means do not think important, think to be of no value, despise."[2] In other words, the wicked do not regard (= they despise) the deeds and works of YHWH; therefore YHWH will destroy them.[3] Other translations for the verb they do not regard (לֹ֤א יָבִ֡ינוּ) include, "they care nothing;"[4] "they do not understand;"[5] "they do not consider;"[6] "they pay no heed."[7]
- To tear down (הרס) is associated with YHWH's act of judgment, and it means "to destroy," "to overthrow" enemies.[8] Thus, "tearing down is a figure for judgment and ruin, and building up [בנה] would be a figure for establishing and making secure (both are implied comparisons). It is as if the ungodly are a building that will be demolished and not rebuilt (see Mal 1:1-5). The figure is very realistic; in wars it was often the case that when people were destroyed their houses were decimated (see Jer 24:6). Defeat was therefore devastating and humiliating."[9]
- To build (בנה) is also associated with "the 'building' of a family, people, dynasty."[10] The implication is that the wicked treat YHWH with contempt and do not regard the deeds of YHWH and the work of his hands. Therefore, YHWH will tear them down (i.e., he will destroy them), and he will not build them up. In other words, their destruction will be permanent. By contrast, YHWH promised David that he would build him a house (=a dynasty) that would last forever (cf. 2 Sam 7:11, 16; Ps 61:5-7). YHWH will judge David favorably and save him from the fate of the wicked.