Charles Ellicott Commentary Psalms 12:5

"Because of the oppression of the poor, because of the sighing of the needy, Now will I arise, saith Jehovah; I will set him in the safety he panteth for." — Psalms 12:5 (ASV)

For the oppression — that is, on account of the oppression. Here, as in so many psalms and prophecies, we have an ancient oracle of God introduced. The poet first quotes it, and then in Psalms 12:6 contrasts its truth and genuineness with the false speeches of hypocrites.

I will set. — Literally, I will set in safety; he blows at it: which may mean either, “I will ensure him of the safety for which he longs,” or “I will set him in safety who longs for it.” This sense is fixed by Habakkuk 2:3: “it panteth to its end,” that is, for its accomplishment.