Psalms 40:1

Authorized King James Version

I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.

Word-by-Word Analysis

קִוִּ֣יתִי

H6960

I waited

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

קִוִּ֣יתִי

H6960

I waited

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

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

for the LORD

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

וַיֵּ֥ט

H5186

and he inclined

to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)

אֵ֝לַ֗י

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

וַיִּשְׁמַ֥ע

H8085

unto me and heard

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

שַׁוְעָתִֽי׃

H7775

my cry

a hallooing

Analysis

The worship and praise theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Temple archaeology and ancient musical instruments illuminate the liturgical context of Israelite worship.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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 does the worship and praise theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?