Comment – In Psalm 17 the author is accused of impiety and for this slander his enemies want to put him to death. He poses this problem to God, sure that he has not failed, but asks him, as judge, to be enlightened to better reflect before acting.
Psalm 17 complete
[1] Prayer. Di Davide. Accept, Lord, the cause of the just, be attentive to my cry. Give ear to my prayer: there is no deception on my lips.
[2] My judgment comes to you, your eyes see justice.
[3] Test my heart, scan it at night, try me by the fire, you will not find malice. My mouth wasn't guilty,
[4] according to the actions of men; following the word of your lips, I avoided the paths of the violent.
[5] In your ways keep my footsteps steady and my feet will not waver.
[6] I invoke you, my God: give me an answer; give ear, listen to my voice,
[7] show me the wonders of your love: you who save those who rely on your right from enemies.
[8] Guard me as a pupil of the eyes, protect me in the shadow of your wings,
[9] before the wicked who oppress me, against the enemies who surround me.
[10] They have closed their hearts, their mouths speak arrogantly.
Recommended readings- Psalm 76: complete, commentary
- Psalm 62: complete, commentary
- Psalm 102: complete, commentary
- Psalm 6: complete, commentary
- Psalm 20: complete, commentary
[11] Here they are, they advance, they surround me, they point their eyes to bring me down;
[12] like a lion who craves prey, a lion that lurks in ambush.
[13] Arise, Lord, face him, bring him down; with your sword save me from the wicked,
[14] with your hand, Lord, from the kingdom of the dead who no longer have a part in this life. Satisfy their womb also with the womb of their children
and leftover for their children.
[15] But for righteousness I will contemplate your face, upon awakening I will be satisfied with your presence.
