Psalms 140:12

12 I know that the LORD maintains the cause of the afflicted, and executes justice for the needy.

Psalms 140:12 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 140:12

I know
Here is a double reading: the "Keri", or marginal reading, is, "thou knowest"; an appeal of the psalmist to God, who knew the thoughts of the wicked concerning him, and their devices against him; as Kimchi: but the Scripture reading is, I know; expressing his full persuasion and assurance

that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted, [and] the
right of the poor;
of his poor and afflicted people, that are afflicted within and without, by men and devils; and who are poor as to the things of this world, and poor in spirit, and sensible of their spiritual poverty, but rich in grace: the cause of these God will maintain against their oppressors, and right their wrongs, and avenge their injuries; this the psalmist knew, and was assured of from the word of God, from instances and examples in former times, and from his own experience, ( Psalms 9:4 ) .

Psalms 140:12 In-Context

10 Let burning coals fall upon them! Let them be cast into pits, no more to rise!

11 Let not the slanderer be established in the land; let evil hunt down the violent man speedily!

12 I know that the LORD maintains the cause of the afflicted, and executes justice for the needy.

13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks to thy name; the upright shall dwell in thy presence.