Psalms 59:11

Slay them not. That is, not immediately. Cain was allowed to wander on earth as a living example of the wretched consequences of hate and murder (see Gen. 4:12–14). Ps. 59:11 begins the second section of the psalm. Verses 11–15 contain a series of strong imprecations, calling for a gradual bringing of retribution upon the wicked enemies of the psalmist, perhaps that time may be given for men to see the full consequences of sin (see on v. 5).

My people. An expression suggesting the psalmist’s tender regard for Israel. He feels that the entire nation should be concerned over the general lawlessness.

Forget. When we have enjoyed complete deliverance, we tend to forget the dangers from which we have been delivered (see Ps. 78:11, 42; 106:13, 21; etc.).

Shield. In harmony with Ugaritic usage (see p. 618), the Heb. magen should probably be translated as a verb, “to implore,” “to beseech,” as also elsewhere in the psalms (see on Ps. 84:9). The clause would then be rendered, “We beseech thee, O Lord.”