Psalms 44:26
Arise for our help, and redeem us for thy mercies' sake.
Original Language Analysis
ק֭וּמָֽה
Arise
H6965
ק֭וּמָֽה
Arise
Strong's:
H6965
Word #:
1 of 6
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
וּ֝פְדֵ֗נוּ
and redeem
H6299
וּ֝פְדֵ֗נוּ
and redeem
Strong's:
H6299
Word #:
4 of 6
to sever, i.e., ransom; generally to release, preserve
Historical Context
Redemption language recalls Egypt and creates hope that God who redeemed once will redeem again. The appeal to mercy rather than merit reflects growing understanding that salvation is grace, not earned.
Questions for Reflection
- Why is it significant that the appeal is 'for thy mercies' sake' rather than 'for our righteousness' sake'?
- How does the exodus provide a pattern for hoping in future redemption?
Analysis & Commentary
The final appeal: 'Arise for our help, and redeem us for thy mercies' sake.' The verb 'arise' (qumah) calls God to action from perceived inactivity. 'Redeem' (padah) invokes the exodus language of liberation. The ground of appeal is not their merit but God's mercy (chesed)--His covenant love that remains despite circumstances.