Psalms 34:6

Authorized King James Version

This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.

Word-by-Word Analysis

זֶ֤ה

H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

עָנִ֣י

H6041

This poor man

depressed, in mind or circumstances

קָ֭רָא

H7121

cried

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

וַיהוָ֣ה

H3068

and the LORD

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

שָׁמֵ֑עַ

H8085

heard

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

וּמִכָּל

H3605

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

צָ֝רוֹתָ֗יו

H6869

him out of all his troubles

transitively, a female rival

הוֹשִׁיעֽוֹ׃

H3467

him and saved

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

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 literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern poetry and hymnic literature for worship shapes this text's meaning. Israel's liturgical traditions developed through centuries of temple worship and personal devotion Understanding a worldview centered on covenant relationship between God and His people helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 34 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?