Adam Clarke's Bible Commentary Verse 1. Do ye indeed speak righteousness ] Or, O cabinet seeing ye profess to act according to the principles of justice, why do ye not give righteous counsels and just decisions, ye sons of men? Or, it may be an irony: What excellent judges you are! well do ye judge according to law and justice, when ye give decisions not founded on any law, nor supported by any principle of justice! To please your master, ye pervert judgment; and take part against the innocent, in order to retain your places and their emoluments. Saul's counsellors appear to have done so, though in their consciences they must have been satisfied of David's innocence.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-5 - When wrong is done under the form of law, it is worse than any other especially it is grievous to behold those who profess to be children of God, joining together against any of his people. We should thank the Lord for merciful restraints; we should be more earnest in seeking renewing grace, more watchful over ourselves, and more patient unde the effects of fallen nature in others. The corruption of their natur was the root of bitterness. We may see in children the wickedness of the world beginning. They go astray from God and their duty as soon a possibly they can. And how soon will little children tell lies! It is our duty to take pains to teach them, and above all, earnestly to pra for converting grace to make our children new creatures. Though the poison be within, much of it may be kept from breaking forth to injur others. When the Saviour's words are duly regarded, the serpent become harmless. But those who refuse to hear heavenly wisdom, must peris miserably, for ever.
Original Hebrew למנצח5329 אל תשׁחת516 לדוד1732 מכתם׃4387 האמנם552 אלם482 צדק6664 תדברון1696 מישׁרים4339 תשׁפטו8199 בני1121 אדם׃120
