Charles Ellicott Commentary Psalms 71:9-11

"Cast me not off in the time of old age; Forsake me not when my strength faileth. For mine enemies speak concerning me; And they that watch for my soul take counsel together, Saying, God hath forsaken him: Pursue and take him; for there is none to deliver." — Psalms 71:9-11 (ASV)

This piece may be compared with Psalms 41:6-8. The formal “saying” (Psalms 71:11), introducing a quotation, is an indication of a late date, as early literature employed no signs of quotation. (See, for example, Psalms 68:12; Psalms 68:26.)