Psalms 59:14

A repetition of Psalms 59:6. But is it (1) as the A.V. appears to take it, an ironical repetition as a curse? let them do now perforce what they did before in malice and wantonness, wandering to and fro (cp. Psalms 59:11) in unsatisfied hunger. Or is it (2) a reiterated description of the writer's present situation, introduced here to emphasise the contrast of his own security under Jehovah's protection? The second alternative is preferable, as giving full force to the emphatic they(Psalms 59:15) and But I(Psalms 59:16). Render,

And though they return at evening, howl like dogs, and go round about the city,

Though they wander to and fro for meat,

And tarry all night if they be not satisfied;

Yet as for me, I shall sing &c.

The prey of which they were in quest was the Psalmist himself. Disappointed in their attempt they might tarry all night, yet he is confident that the dawn will see him still safe, and bring fresh occasion for praise. The A.V. grudge, i.e. murmur, follows the LXX and Jer.; but the contrast -in the morning" (Psalms 59:15) is in favour of R.V. (cp. A.V. marg.) tarry all night.