Contextual Understanding

The 119th Psalm is an acrostic poem, where each section begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, reflecting the orderliness and intentional structure of the Psalmist's plea for understanding and adherence to God's law. In this context, Psalms 119:85 speaks to the spiritual and physical trials faced by the faithful, specifically the schemes and traps set by the arrogant and prideful.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the nature of the proud and their opposition to the righteous. He highlights that these individuals, characterized by their arrogance, devise traps to ensnare those who uphold God’s commandments. Henry suggests that such attacks are not new but rather a recurring theme throughout biblical history, illustrating how the faithful must endure opposition from the wicked.

Furthermore, Henry reflects on the resolve of the Psalmist, showcasing a trust in God's justice and law amidst adversity. The phrase "which are not after thy law" indicates that the oppression faced arises from an ungodly source, reminding readers that God’s laws are a refuge and that reliance on Him provides the necessary strength to withstand such trials.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes elaborates on the metaphor of the "pits" dug by the proud, interpreting them as traps intended to lead the believer away from faithfulness to God’s commandments. He notes that these ‘pits’ signify deceptive and malevolent plots, aimed at discrediting the faithful or leading them into sin.

Barnes illustrates the emotional struggle of the believer when confronted with such deceit, provoking a sense of vulnerability while simultaneously fostering a deeper reliance on God’s word and commandments. He reinforces the idea that God’s guidance is paramount when faced with such trials, echoing the sentiment that the believer should hold fast to their faith even when surrounded by malicious intent.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke offers a nuanced reading of the verse, positing that the "proud" are those who trust in their own strength and defy divine authority. Clarke stresses the spiritual battle inherent in this verse, suggesting that the Psalmist experiences not only persecution but also a theological confrontation with pride and its consequences. He posits that the methods employed by the proud to undermine the faithful include false accusations and moral temptations, which can lead believers away from God’s will.

Clarke concludes with a pastoral exhortation, urging believers to recognize the spiritual warfare they are engaged in and to combat complacency through fortification in Scripture. This commentary encourages believers to find strength in prayer and adherence to the law, which safeguards against the entrapments laid by the proud.

Theological Themes

• The Nature of Pride: The verse illustrates the destructive nature of pride and arrogance, emphasizing how such attitudes not only defy God’s laws but also seek to undermine the faithful.
• Divine Protection: Despite the attempts of the proud to ensnare the Psalmist, the underlying hope is rooted in God’s sovereignty and His protective laws, which serve as a shield against these attacks.
• Spiritual Warfare: The concept of ‘pits’ symbolizes the ongoing spiritual battle that believers face, reflecting the need for vigilance and reliance on God’s guidance to navigate through trials.
• Endurance in Faith: The Psalmist's cry illustrates a model of perseverance under pressure, calling believers to steadfastness in their commitment to God’s law, even when facing opposition.

Practical Applications

For pastors, this verse and its commentary provide a foundation for addressing issues of pride within congregational life, reminding the faithful to seek humility and reliance on God’s law rather than their strength. It creates opportunities to teach on the dangers of arrogance and the importance of community support in facing common adversities.

For students and scholars, the verse serves as a critical study of the tensions within the Psalmist's experience, prompting deeper analysis of Hebrew poetry and the emotive language used to convey spiritual truths about conflict and fidelity to God’s commandments.

For theologians, the commentary enriches discussions around the character of God as a protector and the implications of divine law on moral living. It encourages a reflective approach on how God’s commands serve not only as prohibitory measures but also as proactive guidelines for spiritual warfare and resilience.