Psalms 30:10

Authorized King James Version

Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper.

Word-by-Word Analysis

שְׁמַע

H8085

Hear

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

יְ֝הוָה

H3068

O LORD

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

וְחָנֵּ֑נִי

H2603

and have mercy

properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e., move to favor by petition)

יְ֝הוָה

H3068

O LORD

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

הֱֽיֵה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

עֹזֵ֥ר

H5826

be thou my helper

to surround, i.e., protect or aid

לִֽי׃

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to Psalms. The concept of mercy reflects the development of divine love within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within worship literature expressing the full range of human experience before God to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of divine love within the theological tradition of Psalms Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes mercy in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of mercy differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding divine love as presented in this verse, particularly in light of responding to cultural confusion about the nature of love and relationships?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from covenant faithfulness to sacrificial love demonstrated in Christ, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?