Psalms 132:10
For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.
Original Language Analysis
בַּ֭עֲבוּר
H5668
בַּ֭עֲבוּר
Strong's:
H5668
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, crossed, i.e., (abstractly) transit; used only adverbially, on account of, in order that
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
4 of 7
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תָּ֝שֵׁ֗ב
sake turn not away
H7725
תָּ֝שֵׁ֗ב
sake turn not away
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
5 of 7
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
Historical Context
God established covenant with David promising eternal dynasty (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 89:3-4, 28-37). Each subsequent king ruled under this covenant. The prayer appears to come from Solomon's era or later, appealing to Davidic covenant for continued blessing. Despite individual kings' failures, God maintained the line, ultimately fulfilled in Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- How does David's faithfulness provide basis for blessing his descendants?
- What does 'turn not away the face' reveal about the importance of God's favorable presence?
- How does the title 'thine anointed' anticipate Christ, the ultimate Anointed One?
- In what ways do believers appeal to Christ's righteousness when approaching God?
- How does the Davidic covenant demonstrate God's faithfulness across generations?
Analysis & Commentary
The prayer appeals to Davidic covenant: 'For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.' The word 'for' provides basis for the request - David's faithful service provides grounds for blessing his descendants. 'Thy servant David' emphasizes David's role as God's chosen, faithful servant. The plea 'turn not away the face' means don't reject or refuse - turning away one's face indicates rejection or displeasure. The phrase 'thine anointed' (meshiach - messiah) refers to David's descendant, the reigning king. Every Davidic king was 'the LORD's anointed' (1 Samuel 24:6; 2 Samuel 1:14). The prayer asks God to continue favoring Davidic dynasty based on covenant promises. This reflects understanding that God's relationship with current king depends partly on covenant with David. Christians see ultimate fulfillment in Christ, David's greater son, whose face God will never turn away.