The psalmist pleads with God, who so far has not answered his prayer (verse 3). He again appeals to God’s steadfast love (see verse 13 and 5.7) and his mercy (see 51.1b). The major problem in the translation of verse 16 is the restructuring of the two nominal clauses of Good News Translation, “in the goodness of your constant love” and “in your great compassion.” In some languages both of these may be shifted to causal clauses; for example, “Because you are good and love me faithfully, answer me, LORD; because you have great compassion, turn to me!”

The psalmist begs God not to Hide … thy face (see comments, 13.1), and asks for an immediate answer (make haste, verse 17b), that is, immediate help.

His plea is based on the conviction that he, God’s servant, has been faithful to God and followed his will, and should therefore be given help and protection from his enemies. As Anderson comments, “God’s honour would be called in question if his faithful servant were abandoned to the godless.”

Draw near to me (verse 18a), he pleads; redeem me translates the verb gaʾal (the noun form, “redeemer,” is explained in 19.14), and set me free translates the verb rendered “redeem” in 25.22.

In verse 18b because of my enemies (also New International Version, New Jerusalem Bible, Bible en français courant) is a difficult statement; presumably it means “because my enemies are holding me prisoner” or, as New English Bible, “for I have many enemies.” So Traduction œcuménique de la Bible “I have enemies, set me free.” Die Bibel im heutigen Deutsch translates “so that my enemies will have to be silent.” But it seems better to go with Good News Translation, New Jerusalem Bible, Biblia Dios Habla Hoy.

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 .