Psalms 53:1-6

Psalms 53

This psalm is another version of the one that appears in Book 1 as Psalms 14. David wrote it, and "mahalath" is a tune name. One interesting difference between this psalm and Psalms 14 is that this one contains the name Elohim whereas Psalms 14 has Yahweh.

". . . Psalms 53’s position between Psalms 52, 54 favors an ancient tradition relating to the life of David. Psalms 52 relates to the story of Doeg (cf. 1 Samuel 22) and Psalms 54 to the incident of the Ziphites (cf. 1 Samuel 23; 1 Samuel 26). The term ’fool’ (nabal, Psalms 53:1) is suggestive of Nabal, who acted foolishly to David and his men (cf. 1 Samuel 25)." [Note: VanGemeren, p. 388.]

David reflected on the wickedness of the entire human race and voiced confidence that God would punish sinners. He longed for God to establish His kingdom on earth (cf. Matthew 6:10).