Bible Commentaries
Psalms 101

Verses 1-8

CI. The Ideal Ruler.— The main purport is clear. The ideal ruler is faithful to the high standard which he sets before himself ( Psalms 101:2 b – Psalms 101:4). He requires ( Psalms 101:5-8) the same strict observance from others. The crux of the Ps. is 1, 2 a. Mercy and judgment, unless another meaning is suggested by the context, would refer to the Divine mercy and justice, but of this the Psalmist makes no mention. The question, moreover, “ When wilt thou come unto me?” is puzzling. The ruler seems to have no special difficulty or distress such as the question implies. Perhaps the introduction belonged to another Ps. and was prefixed to the didactic poem which follows in order to fit the Ps. for liturgical use. Or we may accept the emendation, “ I will keep mercy and judgment . . . I will give heed to the way of the perfect, let it come before me.”

Psalms 101:8 . morning by morning: i.e. “ constantly.”