Psalms 35:17
Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions.
Original Language Analysis
כַּמָּ֪ה
H4100
כַּמָּ֪ה
Strong's:
H4100
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
תִּ֫רְאֶ֥ה
how long wilt thou look on
H7200
תִּ֫רְאֶ֥ה
how long wilt thou look on
Strong's:
H7200
Word #:
3 of 8
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
הָשִׁ֣יבָה
rescue
H7725
הָשִׁ֣יבָה
rescue
Strong's:
H7725
Word #:
4 of 8
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
נַ֭פְשִׁי
my soul
H5315
נַ֭פְשִׁי
my soul
Strong's:
H5315
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
מִשֹּׁאֵיהֶ֑ם
from their destructions
H7722
מִשֹּׁאֵיהֶ֑ם
from their destructions
Strong's:
H7722
Word #:
6 of 8
a tempest; by implication, devastation
Cross References
Habakkuk 1:13Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous than he?Psalms 89:46How long, LORD? wilt thou hide thyself for ever? shall thy wrath burn like fire?Psalms 6:3My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O LORD, how long?Psalms 10:14Thou hast seen it; for thou beholdest mischief and spite, to requite it with thy hand: the poor committeth himself unto thee; thou art the helper of the fatherless.Psalms 57:4My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.
Historical Context
David's background as shepherd facing literal lions (1 Samuel 17:34-37) lends authenticity to this metaphor. His early experiences prepared him to trust God against human 'lions' seeking to devour him.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you maintain faith during 'how long' seasons when God seems silent?
- What 'lions' threaten you, and how can you trust God's deliverance?
Analysis & Commentary
The cry 'how long' echoes throughout Psalms, expressing the tension between faith and felt abandonment. 'My darling' (Hebrew 'yachid,' only one, unique) likely refers to his life or soul, something precious and singular. Protection from 'lions' metaphorically represents powerful, violent enemies. This petition acknowledges God's sovereignty over timing while urgently requesting relief, modeling prayer that's both submissive and honest.