Psalms 17:13

"He is like a lion that is greedy of his prey, as it were a young lion lurking in secret places."

Key Reflection

In first-century Israel, lions were both feared and respected for their ferocity and predatory prowess. The imagery of a lion “greedy of his prey” and a young lion “lurking in secret places” would have vividly conveyed the threat posed by enemies who are cunning and ruthless, like dangerous predators waiting to strike. This metaphor underscores the perilous situation faced by David or the psalmist, highlighting their dependence on God’s protection against such formidable foes.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Arise, O Lord -See the notes atPsalms 3:7. Disappoint him -Margin, “prevent his face.” The marginal reading expresses the sense of the Hebrew. The word used in the original means “to anticipate, to go before, to prevent;” and the prayer here is that God would come “before” his enemies; that is, that he would cast himself in their way “before” they should reach him. The enemy is represented as marching upon him with his face intently fixed, seeking his destruction; and he prays that God would interpose, or that He would come to his aid “before” his enemy should come up to him.

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