Psalms 25:5

Authorized King James Version

Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הַדְרִ֘יכֵ֤נִי

H1869

Lead

to tread; by implication, to walk; also to string a bow (by treading on it in bending)

בַאֲמִתֶּ֨ךָ׀

H571

me in thy truth

stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness

וְֽלַמְּדֵ֗נִי

H3925

and teach

properly, to goad, i.e., (by implication) to teach (the rod being an middle eastern incentive)

כִּֽי

H3588

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

אַ֭תָּה

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

אֱלֹהֵ֣י

H430

me for thou art the God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

יִשְׁעִ֑י

H3468

of my salvation

liberty, deliverance, prosperity

אוֹתְךָ֥

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

קִ֝וִּ֗יתִי

H6960

on thee do I wait

to bind together (perhaps by twisting), i.e., collect; (figuratively) to expect

#10

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#11

הַיּֽוֹם׃

H3117

all the day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights worship and praise through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of salvation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about salvation, 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 salvation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding worship and praise as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on salvation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?