Psalms 116:1

Authorized King James Version

I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אָ֭הַבְתִּי

H157

I love

to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)

כִּֽי

H3588

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

יִשְׁמַ֥ע׀

H8085

because he hath heard

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

ק֝וֹלִ֗י

H6963

my voice

a voice or sound

תַּחֲנוּנָֽי׃

H8469

and my supplications

earnest prayer

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to Psalms. The concept of love reflects the development of divine love within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the Israelite monarchy with its court politics and military conflicts. The author writes to address worshipers in the temple and those seeking God in times of distress, making the emphasis on divine love particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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 this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 116 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?