Psalms 22:5

Authorized King James Version

They cried unto thee, and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֵלֶ֣יךָ

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

זָעֲק֣וּ

H2199

They cried

to shriek (from anguish or danger); by analogy, (as a herald) to announce or convene publicly

וְנִמְלָ֑טוּ

H4422

unto thee and were delivered

properly, to be smooth, i.e., (by implication) to escape (as if by slipperiness); causatively, to release or rescue; specifically, to bring forth youn

בְּךָ֖

בָטְח֣וּ

H982

they trusted

properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure

וְלֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

בֽוֹשׁוּ׃

H954

in thee and were not confounded

properly, to pale, i.e., by implication to be ashamed; also (by implication) to be disappointed or delayed

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?
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?