Some translations join verse 9 to verse 8 as the last part of the strophe that includes verses 5-9 (see introduction); but Good News Translation, New Jerusalem Bible, New American Bible, New Jerusalem Bible, Bible de Jérusalem join the verse to what follows: the defeat of Yahweh’s enemies (verse 9) is balanced by the success of the psalmist (verses 10-11). Either division is possible.

Revised Standard Version reproduces the form of the Masoretic text in verse 9, with its buildup to the climax shall perish in line b; Good News Translation has followed the Hebrew manuscripts that omit the first line. Good News Translation “We know that” translates the Hebrew “look, see” (Revised Standard Version lo); New English Bible has “surely,” which may weaken, not strengthen, the statement that follows. Biblia Dios Habla Hoy has “One thing is certain….”

The LORD’s enemies in verse 9 are also the psalmist’s “enemies” in verse 11. Scattered means to be driven away in defeat.

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Reyburn, William D. A Handbook on the Book of Psalms. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1991. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .