Psalms 130:5

Authorized King James Version

I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.

Word-by-Word Analysis

קִוְּתָ֣ה

H6960

I wait

to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e., collect; (figuratively) to expect

יְ֭הוָה

H3068

for the LORD

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

קִוְּתָ֣ה

H6960

I wait

to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e., collect; (figuratively) to expect

נַפְשִׁ֑י

H5315

my soul

properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment

וְֽלִדְבָר֥וֹ

H1697

and in his word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

הוֹחָֽלְתִּי׃

H3176

do I hope

to wait; by implication, to be patient, hope

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of hope connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about hope, 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. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes hope in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on hope address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?