Barnes' Notes on Psalms 109:16

A historical reference excerpt for this verse. Read it alongside the biblical text and other available sources.

Notes on the Whole Bible
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · 19th-century historical commentary
Source: BibleWord.ai's local reference edition of this named work.

Because that he remembered not to show mercy - He had no compassion; he was severe, harsh, unjust, unfeeling. But persecuted the poor and needy man - The man that was destitute of friends; that was a wanderer and a beggar. There were times in the life of David when this would be strictly and literally applicable to him. That he might even slay the broken in heart - The man whose heart was crushed by sorrow - that he might put “the finishing stroke” to all, and send him to the grave. Whatever might have been the “feeling” which prompted to this prayer, or however difficult it may be to vindicate the psalmist’s expression of feeling, there can be no doubt as to the propriety of inflicting punishment on such a man. The sufferings invoked are none too severe to be inflicted on a man who persecutes the poor and needy, and seeks so to multiply sorrows that the man already crushed and broken in heart shall sink to the grave. return to 'Top of Page'

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This excerpt is attributed to its named commentary. It is included as a historical study resource and should be evaluated in light of Scripture and other relevant evidence.