Psalms 144:10

Authorized King James Version

It is he that giveth salvation unto kings: who delivereth David his servant from the hurtful sword.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַנּוֹתֵ֥ן
It is he that giveth
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#2
תְּשׁוּעָ֗ה
salvation
rescue (literal or figurative, persons, national or spiritual)
#3
לַמְּלָ֫כִ֥ים
unto kings
a king
#4
הַ֭פּוֹצֶה
who delivereth
to rend, i.e., open (especially the mouth)
#5
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
דָּוִ֥ד
David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#7
עַבְדּ֗וֹ
his servant
a servant
#8
מֵחֶ֥רֶב
sword
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
#9
רָעָֽה׃
from the hurtful
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing salvation encompasses justification, sanctification, and glorification in the ordo salutis and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 Historical documents from this period show rescue narratives from ancient literature that would resonate with the audience, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection