Psalms 17:6

Authorized King James Version

I have called upon thee, for thou wilt hear me, O God: incline thine ear unto me, and hear my speech.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֲנִֽי

H589

קְרָאתִ֣יךָ

H7121

I have called

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

כִֽי

H3588

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

תַעֲנֵ֣נִי

H6030

upon thee for thou wilt hear

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אֵ֑ל

H410

me O God

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

הַֽט

H5186

incline

to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)

אָזְנְךָ֥

H241

thine ear

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

לִ֝֗י

H9001

שְׁמַ֣ע

H8085

unto me and hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

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אִמְרָתִֽי׃

H565

my speech

an utterance

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 historical context of the monarchic period, particularly David's reign (c. 1000-970 BCE) provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The Israelite monarchy with its temple worship, court life, and constant military threats created the liturgical and emotional context for these prayers and praises. The ancient Israelite worship practices and court culture would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty 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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of worship and praise, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?