Psalms 41:10
But thou, O LORD, be merciful unto me, and raise me up, that I may requite them.
Original Language Analysis
יְהוָ֗ה
But thou O LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֗ה
But thou O LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 6
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
חָנֵּ֥נִי
be merciful
H2603
חָנֵּ֥נִי
be merciful
Strong's:
H2603
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, to bend or stoop in kindness to an inferior; to favor, bestow; causatively to implore (i.e., move to favor by petition)
וַהֲקִימֵ֑נִי
unto me and raise me up
H6965
וַהֲקִימֵ֑נִי
unto me and raise me up
Strong's:
H6965
Word #:
4 of 6
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
Historical Context
David's cry for vindication must be understood within Israel's covenant framework where the king represented God's cause. Attacks on David were attacks on God's anointed and thus on God's reputation among the nations.
Questions for Reflection
- How do we distinguish between seeking just vindication and pursuing personal revenge?
- What does David's appeal to God for 'requite' teach about entrusting judgment to divine hands?
Analysis & Commentary
David's petition 'raise me up, that I may requite them' has troubled many readers. The Hebrew shalam (requite, repay) can mean peaceful completion or just recompense. David likely seeks vindication through God's justice rather than personal revenge, asking God to demonstrate his innocence by delivering him before his enemies.