---
title: "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible -  Psalms 56"
description: "PSALM 56   :-. Upon Jonath-elem-rechokim—literally, \"upon
the dove of silence\" of distant places; either denoting a melody
(see on Psalms 9:1) of that nam"
image: "/images/missing.jpg"
url: "https://realbiblebelievers.com/commentaries/commentary-critical-and-explanatory-on-the-whole-bible/psalms/56"
---

PSALM 56

. *Upon Jonath-elem-rechokim*—literally, "upon
the dove of silence" of distant places; either denoting a melody
(see on [Psalms 9:1](../../../kjv/psalms/9/1)) of that name, to
which this Psalm was to be performed; or it is an enigmatical form of
denoting the subject, as given in the history referred to ([Psalms 9:1](../../../kjv/psalms/9/1), &c.), David being regarded as an uncomplaining, meek
dove, driven from his native home to wander in exile. Beset by
domestic and foreign foes, David appeals confidently to God, recites
his complaints, and closes with joyful and assured anticipations of
God's continued help.

**1, 2. would swallow**—literally,
"pants as a raging beast" ().

**2. enemies**—watchers ().
**most High**—As it is not
elsewhere used absolutely for God, some render the word here,
arrogantly, or proudly, as qualifying "those who fight,"
&c.

**3. in**—or literally, "unto."
**thee**—to whom he turns
in trouble.

**4. in God . . . his word**—By
His grace or aid ([Psalms 60:12](../../../kjv/psalms/60/12);
[Psalms 108:13](../../../kjv/psalms/108/13)), or, "I will
boast in God as to His word"; in either case His word is the
special matter and cause of praise.
**flesh**—for mankind
([Psalms 65:2](../../../kjv/psalms/65/2); [Isaiah 31:3](../../../kjv/isaiah/31/3)),
intimating frailty.

**5, 6.** A vivid picture of the
conduct of malicious enemies.

**7. Shall they escape?** &c.—or
better, "Their escape is by iniquity."
**cast . . . people**—humble
those who so proudly oppose Thy servant.

**8.** God is mindful of his exile
and remembers his tears. The custom of *bottling the tears* of
mourners as a memorial, which has existed in some Eastern nations,
may explain the figure.

**9. God is for me**—or, "on
my side" ([Psalms 118:6](../../../kjv/psalms/118/6); [Psalms 124:1](../../../kjv/psalms/124/1);
[Psalms 124:2](../../../kjv/psalms/124/2)); hence he is sure of
the repulse of his foes.

**12. I will render praises**—will
pay what I have vowed.

**13.** The question implies an
affirmative answer, drawn from past experience.
**falling**—as from a
precipice.
**before God**—in His favor
during life.

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