Psalms 4:1

Authorized King James Version

Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בְּקָרְאִ֡י

H7121

me when I call

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

עֲנֵ֤נִי׀

H6030

Hear

properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,

אֱלֹ֘הֵ֤י

H430

O 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

צִדְקִ֗י

H6664

of my righteousness

the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity

בַּ֭צָּר

H6862

me when I was in distress

a pebble (as in h6864)

הִרְחַ֣בְתָּ

H7337

thou hast enlarged

to broaden (intransitive or transitive, literal or figurative)

לִּ֑י

חָ֝נֵּ֗נִי

H2603

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)

וּשְׁמַ֥ע

H8085

upon me and hear

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

#10

תְּפִלָּתִֽי׃

H8605

my prayer

intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn

Analysis

Within the broader context of Psalms, this passage highlights divine love through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 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 divine love 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

How does this verse's literary context within Psalms chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on righteousness address the problem of evil and suffering in light of God's goodness, and how should the church respond?
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?