Psalms 143:1
Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.
Word-by-Word Analysis
Analysis
This verse develops the worship and praise theme central to Psalms. The concept of faith reflects the proper human response to God's character and works. 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
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 faith in this particular way.
Questions for Reflection
- In what ways does this verse's emphasis on faith address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
- 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?
- How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 143 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?