Psalms 26:1

PSALM XXVI

The psalmist appeals to God for his integrity, and desires to

be brought to the Divine test in order to have his innocence

proved, 1-3;

shows that he had avoided all fellowship with the wicked, and

associated with the upright, 4-8;

prays that he may not have his final lot with the workers of

iniquity, 9, 10;

purposes to walk uprightly before God, 11, 12.

NOTES ON PSALM XXVI

This Psalm, and the two following, are supposed by Calmet to be all parts of one ode, and to relate to the time of the captivity, containing the prayers, supplications, complaints, and resolutions of the Israelites in Babylon. This is probable; but we have not evidence enough to authorize us to be nice on such points. See on the following verse.

Verse Psalms 26:1. Judge me, O Lord] There are so many strong assertions in this Psalm concerning the innocence and uprightness of its author, that many suppose he wrote it to vindicate himself from some severe reflections on his conduct, or accusations relative to plots, conspiracies, c. This seems to render the opinion probable that attributes it to David during his exile, when all manner of false accusations were brought against him at the court of Saul.

I have walked in mine integrity] I have never plotted against the life nor property of any man I have neither coveted nor endeavoured to possess myself of Saul's crown.

I have trusted] Had I acted otherwise, I could not have been prosperous; for thou wouldst not have worked miracles for the preservation of a wicked man.

I shall not slide.] I shall be preserved from swerving from the paths of righteousness and truth.