But like a deaf man, I do not hear; and like a mute man, I do not open my mouth.
David composed this psalm as a memorial, knowing how quickly God's chastisements slip from our minds even though they ought to instruct us all our lives. The title points to his purpose: to keep the lessons of affliction alive in himself and in others.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 38:1-22
But I, as a deaf man, heard not. Well and bravely was this done. A sacred indifference to the slanders of malevolence is true courage and wise policy. It is well to be as if we could not hear or see.
David's enemies are relentless: they lay snares all day long, speaking mischief one to another. When he stumbles, they magnify themselves against him as though he were already ruined. Worst of all, they render him evil for good, repaying his kindness with hatred and deceit. Such is the enmity of the serpent's seed.
AI summary
Commenting on Psalm 38:12-22