Psalms 13:1

Authorized King James Version

How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַד
H5704
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#2
אָ֣נָה
H575
where?; hence, whither?, when?; also hither and thither
#3
יְ֭הוָה
H3068
me O LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
תִּשְׁכָּחֵ֣נִי
H7911
How long wilt thou forget
to mislay, i.e., to be oblivious of, from want of memory or attention
#5
נֶ֑צַח
H5331
for ever
properly, a goal, i.e., the bright object at a distance travelled towards; hence (figuratively), splendor, or (subjectively) truthfulness, or (objecti
#6
עַד
H5704
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#7
אָ֓נָה׀
H575
where?; hence, whither?, when?; also hither and thither
#8
תַּסְתִּ֖יר
H5641
how long wilt thou hide
to hide (by covering), literally or figuratively
#9
אֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#10
פָּנֶ֣יךָ
H6440
thy face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#11
מִמֶּֽנִּי׃
H4480
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection