Psalms 142:6

Authorized King James Version

Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הַקְשִׁ֤יבָה׀

H7181

Attend

to prick up the ears, i.e., hearken

אֶֽל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

רִנָּתִי֮

H7440

unto my cry

properly, a creaking (or shrill sound), i.e., shout (of joy or grief)

כִּֽי

H3588

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

דַלּ֪וֹתִ֫י

H1809

for I am brought

to slacken or be feeble; figuratively, to be oppressed

מְאֹ֥ד

H3966

very

properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

הַצִּילֵ֥נִי

H5337

deliver

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

מֵרֹדְפַ֑י

H7291

me from my persecutors

to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)

כִּ֖י

H3588

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

#10

אָמְצ֣וּ

H553

for they are stronger

to be alert, physically (on foot) or mentally (in courage)

#11

מִמֶּֽנִּי׃

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

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 worship and praise particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
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?