In former days, God’s right hand performed mighty deeds for Israel. He led them out of Egypt and into Canaan (Psalm 44:3; Psalm 60:5; Psalm 78:54; Psalm 80:17). Now God’s hand has stopped acting, leading to disaster.
The robes worn in those days were hitched up above the belt, resulting in a fold that could function as a pocket. To have one’s hand in the bosom is like someone in modern times standing around with his hands in his pockets, doing nothing! The psalmist is bluntly asking God why he was not doing something to rescue them from the unbelievers. Similar direct language is found in Isaiah 63:1–19, Psalm 10:1–18, Psalm 13:1–6, and Psalm 44:1–26. Some interpretations of these Psalms find these types of questions impudent and irreverent, but instead of being sacrilegious, it is a plea for God to take action.
11 Why do you hold back your hand, your right hand? Take it from the fold of your garment and destroy them!