In verse 6 the psalmist reaffirms in the first person singular what he had already said in the third person plural in verse 3a-b. The expression not in my bow do I trust is an example of a part of a weapon standing for the whole weapon. In some cases it will be necessary to say both “bow and arrows,” or if these are unknown, to use the generic “weapon.”

In verse 7 put to confusion translates the verb meaning “to put to shame” (see 6.10 and comment). It is the shame of defeat that is meant. Our foes and those who hate us are synonymous.

In verse 8a the verb translated we have boasted (see 10.3) can also mean “praise.” To boast In God means either “to boast of what God has done” or “to be proud of God” (Biblia Dios Habla Hoy); or else, “to praise God.” Again, in verse 8b, thy name stands for “you.”

For Selah see 3.2.

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 .