4:title music director The meaning of the Hebrew word used here, menatseach, often translated as “choirmaster,” is uncertain. It derives from the verb natsach (“to inspect”), which is connected to the temple and its activities.

with stringed instruments Several variations of stringed instruments were in use in the ot. See note on 92:3.

A psalm of David See note on 3:title.

4:1 answer me A common exclamation in the Psalms (e.g., 13:3; 27:7; 55:2; 86:1; 143:7). Appealing to God’s righteousness, the psalmist finds confidence in examples of God’s deliverance. Just as He has in the past, God—the one who upholds justice—will graciously respond to the psalmist’s cry and restore him.

righteousness Using the Hebrew word tsedeq, the psalmist describes God as righteous or as the basis for his righteousness. He hopes God, as a righteous judge, will see his innocence and vindicate Him.

Justice

4:2 O sons of man These people may be causing the psalmist’s distress or merely exacerbating it. They may be falsely accusing the psalmist or mocking his trust in God (3:2).

4:3 has set apart for himself the faithful one The psalmist answers his enemies by confidently affirming that Yahweh will answer him. They may shame his honor, but God has set him apart.

4:4 Be disturbed The psalmist instructs his enemies to fearfully refrain from sin. The Hebrew word used here, ragaz, means “to tremble,” usually from fear (99:1; Exod 15:14; Mic 7:17).

Commune in your heart The psalmist encourages his enemies to meditate quietly on their beds instead of sinning (Ps 77:6).

4:5 Offer correct sacrifices After meditating, the psalmist’s enemies should repent by offering sacrifices of righteousness and putting their trust in Yahweh.

4:6 Lift up over us the light of your face The psalmist pleads for Yahweh to reveal Himself. This reflects the priestly blessing of Num 6:24–26.

4:7 You have put gladness in my heart more than God’s presence results in abundant joy (16:11).

4:8 In peace The Psalm ends on a note of peaceful tranquility. Just as He has in the past (v. 1), Yahweh has responded, enabling the psalmist to sleep in safety.