What does Psalms Chapter 42 say, and which statements belong to its speaker?

The Latin incipit is Judica me, Deus. The separate heading describes the prophet's aspiration for temple and altar; the inscription is for David. He asks God to judge and distinguish his cause from an unholy nation and deliver him from the unjust deceitful man. Calling God his strength, he asks why cast off and sorrowful under the enemy's affliction.

He asks sending of light and truth, saying they have conducted and brought him to the holy hill and tabernacles. That past guidance remains alongside present request; no literal messengers taking hands or journey across a wilderness is described. He will go to God's altar, to the God giving joy to his youth, and praise on a harp.

He questions his soul's sadness and disquiet and urges hope, for he will still praise the salvation of his countenance and his God. The phrase about joy to youth is not an assertion of restored youthfulness or an already completed return from exile.