1:2 how long. The impatient question, characteristic of the psalms of lament (Ps. 13:2; 62:3; Jer. 47:6), indicates both importunity and perseverance in the prophet’s appeal to the Lord, the final Judge in matters of covenant disobedience.

shall I cry. This indicates the loud cry of someone in deep distress (Ps. 22:24; 30:2).

Violence. This term summarizes the deliberate, brutal, and insensitive infringement of the rights and privileges of members of the covenant community.

you will not save. Habakkuk painfully observes the Lord’s seeming indifference and inactivity in the face of undeserved suffering.