Translations
Original
Notes
The wicked rely on violence (Psalms 11:5; 37:32) and deception (Proverbs 12:6; 23:27–28).
Wicked and oppressive people might succeed, causing harmful effects. Evil can be as dramatic as the psalmist portrays it here, or it could be more subtle.
The lament in Psalm 9:13–20 continues in Psalm 10 (see study note on Psalms 9–10). However, the mood shifts from confident statements to anguished questions. The psalmist prays for rescue, trusting that the Lord, as a just king, take care of the needy.
This hymn celebrates the Lord's rule and triumph over evil. It may also respond to the laments in Psalms 3–7.
Some believe that Psalms 9 and 10 should be read together as one psalm in two parts. This is because Psalm 9 has a title, while Psalm 10 does not.
Despite some missing or inverted letters, the two psalms form an acrostic of the Hebrew alphabet. This means that each line or section begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
Other alphabetic acrostics include Psalms 25, 34, 37, 111–112, 119, and 145.
The ancient Greek and Latin translations treat Psalms 9 and 10 as one psalm.
Glossary
Acrostic David Music Persecution Poetry, Biblical Psalms, Book of
Topics
Character of the Wicked: Murderous Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Murder: The Wicked: Lie in Wait to Commit Speaking: Evil Wicked (People): Described