Charles Ellicott Commentary Psalms 52:1

"Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? The lovingkindness of God [endureth] continually." — Psalms 52:1 (ASV)

Mighty man. This term is better understood as hero, used sarcastically. The Septuagint and Vulgate render it as “a mighty one at mischief.” (Compare to Isaiah 5:22, which reads: a hero at drinking.)

The order of the Hebrew, however, argues against this interpretation and is in favour of the English rendering: Why do you exult in wickedness, O hero? This question perhaps refers not only to the hero's own wickedness but also to the wickedness the people are led into by his actions. This understanding seems required by the next clause.

In spite of man’s folly and sin, God’s covenant favour endures all the day long.