EXPOSITION
Tins psalm describes the rightful conduct and proper principles of action of an Israelite king. It is regarded by some as a portrait of an ideal ruler, dramatically put into his mouth; by others, as an actual address to God by a real ruler, making profession of his intentions, and asking God to aid him (Psalms 101:2). The "title" of the psalm, both in the Hebrew and the Septuagint, which ascribes it to David, favours the latter view. Ewald and De Wette, who maintain the Davidical authorship, note the simplicity, depth, and concentration of the thought as wholly worthy of the reputed writer.
Metrically, the psalm divides itself into two stanzas, each of four verses. In the first stanza (Psalms 101:1-4) the writer declares the principles on which he intends to act in his private life. In the second (Psalms 101:5-8) he enunciates those by which he means to be guided in his government of the people.