2 I poured out my complaint before him; I shewed before him my trouble.

142:2 Justified - Upon terms of strict justice.

3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me.

142:3 For - This is not a reason of what he last said, but an argument to enforce his petition delivered, ver.1. Soul - My life; nothing less will satisfy him. Dead - I am in as hopeless a condition in the eye of man, as those that have lain long in the grave. Knowest - So as to direct me to it. My path - What paths I should chuse whereby I might escape.

4 I looked on my right hand, and beheld, but there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me; no man cared for my soul.

142:4 Right - hand - The place where the patron or assistant used to stand.

5 I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living.

142:5 The days - What thou hast done for thy servants in former times. Portion - Even in this life.

6 Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I.

142:6 As land - Thirsteth for rain.

7 Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.

142:7 Prison - Set me at liberty. Compass - Shall flock to me from all parts, to rejoice and bless God with me and for me. CHAPT.CXLIII David complains and prays for pardon and help, ver. 1 - 12. A psalm of David.