Psalm 57

Authorship

This Psalm was authored by David.

Outline

(This began as Wendland's Expository Outline, but may be adapted.)

I. A plea. (1-4)

A. Be merciful unto me, O God, for my soul trusteth in thee.

B. I will take refuge in the shadow of Your wings until these calamities pass.

C. I will cry unto God Most High that performs all things for me.

1. He shall send from heaven, and save from the reproach of those that would swallow me up.

2. God will send forth His mercy and His truth.

D. The psalmist’s circumstances:

1. His soul was among lions.

2. He dwelt among those set on fire by evil.

3. Their mouths were like spears, arrows, and sharp swords.

II. A praise. Be exalted, Oh God, above the heavens and let Your glory be above all. (5-11)

A. Because the enemy prepared a net for my steps and dug a pit, but they fell in themselves.

B. Because my heart is fixed:

1. I will sing and give praise.

2. I will awake my glory and praise You early with psaltery and harp.

3. I will praise Thee among the people and the nations.

C. Because of Your mercy and truth:

1. You are exalted above the heavens.

2. Your glory is above the earth.

Textual Criticism

The following is from Barthélemy's Critique textuelle de l’Ancien Testament volume on the Psalms. For a key to the various symbols and abbreviations, click here.

Ps 57,7(6) כָּפַף {B} MT, T // lic: Hebr/ assim-ctext: G / abr-elus: S

Ps 57,9(8) אָעִירָה {A} MT // exeg: G, Hebr, S, T

Ps 57,11(10) עַד (one°) {A} MT, G, Hebr, S, T // assim-par: m, g