Psalms 143:11

Quicken me, O LORD, for thy name's sake: for thy righteousness' sake bring my soul out of trouble.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לְמַֽעַן

H4616

properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that

שִׁמְךָ֣

H8034

for thy name's

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

יְהוָ֣ה

H3068

me O LORD

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

תְּחַיֵּ֑נִי

H2421

Quicken

to live, whether literally or figuratively; causatively, to revive

בְּצִדְקָתְךָ֓׀

H6666

sake for thy righteousness

rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)

תוֹצִ֖יא

H3318

sake bring

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

מִצָּרָ֣ה

H6869

out of trouble

transitively, a female rival

נַפְשִֽׁי׃

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

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 143 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
How might the original audience's understanding of righteousness differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?