Psalms 109:21

Authorized King James Version

But do thou for me, O GOD the Lord, for thy name's sake: because thy mercy is good, deliver thou me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאַתָּ֤ה׀

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

יְה֘וִ֤ה

H3069

thou for me O GOD

god

אֲדֹנָ֗י

H136

the Lord

the lord (used as a proper name of god only)

עֲֽשֵׂה

H6213

But do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אִ֭תִּי

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

לְמַ֣עַן

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

שְׁמֶ֑ךָ

H8034

for thy name's

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

ט֥וֹב

H2896

is good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

#10

חַ֝סְדְּךָ֗

H2617

sake because thy mercy

kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty

#11

הַצִּילֵֽנִי׃

H5337

deliver

to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights divine love through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of mercy connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about mercy, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Psalms.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of divine love within the theological tradition of Psalms Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes mercy in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 109 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding divine love as presented in this verse, particularly in light of responding to cultural confusion about the nature of love and relationships?
How does the divine love theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?