---
title: "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible -  Psalms 3"
description: "PSALM 3   :-. For the historical occasion mentioned, compare  :-. David, in the midst of great distress, with filial
confidence, implores God"
image: "/images/missing.jpg"
url: "https://realbiblebelievers.com/commentaries/commentary-critical-and-explanatory-on-the-whole-bible/psalms/3"
---

PSALM 3

. For the historical occasion mentioned, compare . David, in the midst of great distress, with filial
confidence, implores God's aid, and, anticipating relief, offers
praise.

**1. Lord . . . increased**—The
extent of the rebellion () surprises and grieves him.

**2. say of my soul**—that is, "of
me" (compare [Psalms 25:3](../../../kjv/psalms/25/3)).
This use of "soul" is common; perhaps it arose from
regarding the soul as man's chief part.
**no help . . . in God**—rejected
by Him. This is the bitterest reproach for a pious man, and denotes a
spirit of malignant triumph.
**Selah**—This word is of
very obscure meaning. It probably denotes *rest* or *pause,*
both as to the music and singing, intimating something emphatic in
the sentiment (compare [Psalms 9:16](../../../kjv/psalms/9/16)).

**3. But**—literally, "and"
([Psalms 2:6](../../../kjv/psalms/2/6)). He repels the reproach
by avowing his continued trust.
**shield**—a favorite and
often-used figure for protection.
**my glory**—its source.
**lifter up of mine head**—one
who raises me from despondency.

**4. cried . . . heard**—Such has
been my experience. The latter verb denotes a gracious hearing or
answering.
**out of**—or, "from."
**his holy hill**—Zion (). His visible earthly residence.

**5. the Lord sustained me**—literally,
"will sustain me," as if his language or thought when he
*laid down,* and the reason of his composure.

**6. ten thousands of people**—or,
"myriads," any very great number (compare ).

**7. Arise, O Lord**—God is
figuratively represented as asleep to denote His apparent
indifference ([Psalms 7:6](../../../kjv/psalms/7/6)). The use
of "*cheekbone*" and "*teeth*"
represents his enemies as fierce, like wild beasts ready to devour
([Psalms 27:2](../../../kjv/psalms/27/2)), and smiting their
cheekbone ([1 Kings 22:24](../../../kjv/1-kings/22/24)) denotes
violence and insult.
**thou hast broken**—God
took his part, utterly depriving the enemy of power to injure.

**8.** An ascription of praise to a
delivering God, whose favor is an efficient benefit.

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