PSALM 43

Psalms 43:1-5 . Excepting the recurrence of the refrain, there is no good reason to suppose this a part of the preceding, though the scope is the same. It has always been placed separate.

1. Judge--or, "vindicate" ( Psalms 10:18 ).
plead, &c.--( Psalms 35:1 ).
ungodly--neither in character or condition objects of God's favor (compare Psalms 4:3 ).

2. God of my strength--by covenant relation my stronghold ( Psalms 18:1 ).
cast me off--in scorn.
because--or, "in," that is, in such circumstances of oppression.

3. light--as in Psalms 27:1 .
truth--or, "faithfulness" ( Psalms 25:5 ), manifest it by fulfilling promises. Light and truth are personified as messengers who will bring him to the privileged place of worship.
tabernacles--plural, in allusion to the various courts.

4. the altar--as the chief place of worship. The mention of the harp suggests the prominence of praise in his offering.