Psalm 73:6

EXPOSITION

Verse 6. Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain. They are as great in their own esteem as if they were aldermen of the New Jerusalem; they want no other ornament than their own pomposity. No jeweller could sufficiently adorn them; they wear their own pride as a better ornament than a gold chain.

Violence covereth them as a garment. In their boastful arrogance they array themselves; they wear the livery of the devil, and are fond of it. As soon as you see them, you perceive that room must be made for them, for, regardless of the feelings and rights of others, they intend to have their way, and achieve their own ends. They brag and bully, bluster and browbeat, as if they had taken out license to ride roughshod over all mankind.

EXPLANATORY NOTES AND QUAINT SAYINGS

Verse 6. A chain of pearl doth not better become their necks, nor the richest robes adorn their backs, than sin doth, in their judgments, become and suit their souls; they glory in their shame. Plato saith of Protagoras that he boasted, whereas he had lived sixty years, he had spent forty years in corrupting youth. They brag of that which they ought to bewail. George Swinnock.

Verse 6. Violence covereth them as a garment. They wear it, and shew it openly as their garment. See the like phrase of cursing, Psalms 109:18-19 . But the meek, and godly, cover themselves otherwise, Ephesians 4:24 Colossians 3:10 Colossians 3:12 Colossians 3:14 , etc. John Richardson.

HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS

None.