Psalm 59 is another individual lament as the faithful person seeks protection from enemies who threaten his life. The background for this Psalm is 1 Samuel
19:11 where King Saul sends men to watch and to wait for David at his house. David escapes through a window. The point of the Psalm is that David claims this pursuit is not his fault. David uses the words: God – Elohim, O LORD – YHWH, and LORD of Hosts, YHWH Sabaoth for deity.
1-10 – This is a cry for help in the face of fierce and bloodthirsty enemies. Verses 1-2 are plea to be delivered from enemies. Verses 3-4 give the reason for the prayer. These evil men pursue David but for no transgression or sin of David. The wicked are described as howling dogs, prowling about the city, with swords in their lips. David states that God holds all the nations in derision, perhaps he. Is implying that Saul’s men are acting like gentiles.
11-17 – This stanza declares confidence that God will protect David and make an example out of his persecutors. David asks that the wicked may be defeated so that all will know that God rules over Israel and to the ends of the earth. David again describes these men as howling dogs who curse and lie and who are trapped in their pride. But David confidently sings of God’s steadfast love for David. God is David’s fortress and refuge