Psalms 26

Ps 26 In this individual lament, the psalmist prays for redemption on the basis of his own innocence and the Lord’s justice.26:1-3 The psalmist opens himself to divine examination of his life, especially in the areas of his character and devotion.

26:3 For God’s truth to become part of one’s character requires a habitual commitment.

26:4-5 Because of his devotion to the Lord (26:1-3), the psalmist dissociates himself from evil people (see 1:1).

26:6-8 The psalmist demonstrates his loyalty to the Lord through pious rituals, praise, and acknowledgment of the Lord’s presence in the Temple.26:6 Ritual purity required the worshiper to wash their hands, symbolic of separation from evil and evildoers (see 73:13). • The altar symbolizes God’s presence (43:4).

26:8 The sanctuary symbolized the manifest presence of the Lord (see 18:6).

26:9 Don’t let me suffer: The end of the godly cannot be the same as that of the wicked.

26:12 The psalmist’s footing on solid ground represents salvation (cp. 143:10). • publicly: Or in the great assembly at the Temple (26:6-8; 22:25).