Psalm 11 Study Notes

11:4-5 The security of the psalmist rested in the fact that God had not left his holy temple (see Mc 1:2; Hab 2:20) and was still on his throne (103:19), both of which are in heaven. Though the wicked thought that God was not paying any attention to what was happening on earth (10:4; 14:1; 53:1), he was actually watching and examining everyone (33:13-14). This included both the righteous and the wicked.

11:6 The Hebrew text of this verse reads, “Let him rain down traps on the wicked.” This reading might have originated from a connection with v. 1, since the word for “trap” most often describes something used to catch birds (Am 3:5). Another reading is “coals of fire,” which only amounts to a slight variation of letters. This seems more likely in light of the parallel with scorching wind.

11:7 Seeing God’s face, a figurative expression, is equivalent to experiencing God’s favor or blessing (17:15; Jb 33:26). It is the opposite of God hiding his face (Ps 10:11). A related image is for God’s face to “shine” on his people (Nm 6:25).