Psalm 43 Study Notes

43:1 Vindication is a common request in psalms that assume the innocence and integrity of the psalmist (Pss 17 and 26). Unfaithful nation is parallel to a deceitful and unjust person. It is difficult to determine whether these enemies were Gentiles who were not a part of the Lord’s covenant or Israelites who were disloyal to the covenant.

43:2 Rejection by God is a common assumption when one’s prayers seem to go unanswered (see notes at 13:1-2; 22:1).

43:3-4 Light and truth are placed together when they refer to the Lord’s instruction (or his will) for his people (Pr 6:23). The psalmist was requesting guidance in order once again to be in the Lord’s presence, represented here by the three descriptions: your holy mountain . . . your dwelling place, and the altar of God. If this is a continuation of Ps 42, then the request in 42:2 is further specified.

43:5 See note at 42:5.