- The Psalmist uses the past tense in Psalms 71:1 — would this indicate anything as to his age (and see Psalms 71:9)?
- Who are the wicked in Psalms 71:4 — slanderers? Criminals?
- Based on Psalms 71:6 does the Psalmist have reason to expect assistance from God?
- Does Psalms 71:9 echo a refrain from the liturgy of the High Holy Days (see Shma Koleynu)?
- While beset by troubles would Psalms 71:14 indicate that confidence in God’s help remains?
- Would Psalms 71:20 be a plea for immortality — or for being saved from current difficulties?
- And in the closing refrain (Psalms 71:22-24), does the Psalmist end with an expression of hope — or despair?
