Verse 10
10. Let burning coals fall upon them The verb is declarative: “He shall cause coals of fire to fall,” etc., “coals” being taken figuratively, for great distress, as Proverbs 25:22, “Thou shalt heap coals of fire,” etc., meaning, “Thou wilt overwhelm him with shame and remorse for his enmity toward thee.” Gesenius. Whether human instruments were employed, or only direct divine judgments, as Psalms 11:6, (comp. Genesis 19:24,) the result would be the same.
Deep pits Many interpreters, ancient and modern, Jewish and Christian, understand water pits. R. Parchi, as quoted by Gesenius, understands “rivers flowing with strength and impetuosity.” The word indicates whirlpools or rapids swift and noisy waters. The Septuagint and Vulgate have, “calamities.” The figurative sense of sudden and overwhelming calamities, such as they had plotted for the psalmist, must be admitted.
That they rise not up again That they may never recover their stations of power and wealth, to outrage justice and derange society.
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